Impact of Maternal RSV Vaccination on Child Respiratory Health

PhD Opportunity: Impact of Maternal RSV Vaccination on Child Respiratory Health

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract disease in children under five years of age and is an important cause of hospitalisation and respiratory illness in infancy. Maternal RSV vaccination, recommended from 28 weeks’ gestation, provides an opportunity to protect infants during their most vulnerable period.

The PhD candidate will investigate both short- and long-term respiratory outcomes and assess the effectiveness and impact of maternal RSV vaccination across diverse real-world populations.

The project will involve the analysis of large and complex health datasets and will provide an opportunity to develop and apply advanced quantitative and epidemiological methods to address an important public health question.

What will you do?

The PhD candidate will:

• Analyse large-scale, routinely collected linked health datasets.
• Apply advanced epidemiological and statistical methods to address confounding, bias, missing data, and other challenges inherent in observational research.
• Examine differences in vaccine effectiveness across population groups and real-world settings.
• Contribute to research publications, presentations, and translation of findings into clinical and public health practice.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with strong advanced quantitative skills and an interest in applying these skills to infant and child health research.

Essential requirements:

• A relevant Master's degree, Honours degree, or equivalent qualification in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, data science, medicine, health sciences, or a related discipline.

What will you gain?

This PhD opportunity will provide advanced training and research experience in population health, epidemiology, biostatistics, and analysis of real-world health data. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with experienced researchers and contribute to evidence that can inform vaccination policy and improve respiratory health outcomes for infants and young children.

Scholarship

• $40,000 pa, 3.5 to 4 years

Eligibility

• Open to Domestic and International PhD applicants

How to Apply

Email Dr Fekede Kumsa at f.kumsa@unsw.edu.au with a copy of your CV and academic transcripts by 15 September 2026