Postgraduate research students at NDARC make a unique contribution to knowledge in the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector by conducting independent research projects under the guidance of our leading researchers. 

Students come to NDARC through a variety of pathways, and some choose to maintain clinical or other professional roles while undertaking a PhD, while many others undertake paid research work alongside their PhD.  

In this blog series, three members of our current cohort share their insights about undertaking postgraduate research alongside professional roles, how they balance their commitments and their hopes for the future.  

First up is Emily Symes, whose PhD, ‘Exploration of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and mental health among people of trans experience in Australia', is supported by a joint NDARC and ACON scholarship. Emily’s primary supervisor is NDARC’s Scientia Professor Louisa Degenhardt. 

What led me to undertake my PhD at NDARC 

Undertaking my PhD was the result of a fortunate combination of timing, interests and opportunity. I had just finished my Emergency Medicine specialty training and was looking for an opportunity to become more involved in research. I've always been interested in understanding what drives clinical outcomes and patient experiences, and research provides a way to generate evidence that can improve people’s lives. 

During my clinical training, I developed particular interests in both clinical toxicology and addiction medicine. These are areas where we care for people experiencing substance dependence, unintentional overdoses and deliberate self-poisoning, so there’s a strong intersection between medicine, mental health and the broader social determinants of health.  

At the same time, as a member of the trans and gender-diverse community, I was also motivated to contribute to research that could improve the health and wellbeing of our community.  

When a joint scholarship opportunity between ACON and NDARC became available, it felt like a unique opportunity to bring together my clinical interests, research aspirations and personal connection to the community.

Being organised is essential 

It is tricky at times, but I try to dedicate specific days for clinical work and PhD work. In reality, overlap does occur, but I generally find it helps to mentally separate the two so I can stay focused on whichever role I’m in at the time.  

I rely a lot on forward planning and keep a diary with daily, weekly and monthly tasks to help me stay on top of competing demands and make sure nothing gets missed. At the same time, flexibility is just as important. Both clinical toxicology and addiction medicine work, and research, tend to come in waves – some weeks are much heavier on one side than the other, so there’s a fair amount of adjusting and shifting priorities as needed.  

I’ve also been very fortunate to work with supervisors and colleagues who are themselves heavily involved in both clinical work and research. They understand the reality of juggling the two and have been extremely supportive. I’ve learned a great deal from their mentorship, for which I’m very grateful. 

Incorporating elements of my professional life into my PhD project 

I feel very fortunate to be able to incorporate both my professional experience and my lived experience as a trans and gender diverse person into my PhD project. 

In my clinical work, I regularly care for trans and gender diverse people, people who use substances, and those experiencing mental health difficulties. This provides direct insight into the real-world factors that contribute to clinical presentations, many of which are recognised in the research literature. It has also made me a more reflective clinician, particularly in recognising the broader social and structural influences on health.  

Research also provides the space to step back and think more broadly about these issues. It allows time to identify patterns, explore underlying drivers, and consider how systems of care might be improved in ways that aren’t always possible in day-to-day clinical work. 

Ultimately, I find working across both areas is very complementary. It allows me to approach problems from different perspectives, which I find both valuable and stimulating. 

I see my PhD as a starting point for further research 

There are so many areas in this space that still need to be explored! Moving forward, I hope to build on the research and project management skills I developed during my PhD, and continue to strengthen the collaborations I’ve developed with researchers, clinicians and community organisations across the field. I’m particularly keen to continue combining research and clinical practice, as this connection makes it easier to translate findings into clinical practice, service development and health policy.  

More specifically, I’m interested in further work that improves health equity for trans and gender-diverse people, as there is still considerable room for improvement in outcomes and access to care. Longer term, I’d like to contribute to capacity building in this space through teaching, mentoring, and supporting others coming through similar training pathways – returning the support I’ve been fortunate to receive along the way. 

What I’ve learned: My advice to working professionals

One of the biggest adjustments is the pace. Compared to clinical work, research is much more of a marathon than a sprint, so pacing yourself and being comfortable with longer timelines is important. 

Good supervision and mentorship also make a huge difference. Having supportive supervisors who can guide you through the process, provide feedback, and help you navigate challenges is invaluable. 

It’s also important to be open to feedback. As clinicians, we’re often used to aiming for high standards and getting things right the first time, but research is iterative. There are usually many rounds of refinement, and learning to see feedback as part of improving your work is key. 

Finally, I’d emphasise the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. It’s easy to let research take over, but staying connected to friends, family, hobbies, and interests outside of work is really important. 

Postgraduate research can be incredibly rewarding

If you’re passionate about an area, I’d definitely encourage you to go for it! Postgraduate research can be a real opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, while developing deep expertise in a field you care about. 

Other blogs in this series: Craig Rodgers and Amelia Woods

Interested in postgraduate research opportunities at NDARC? 

NDARC has a number of postgraduate research projects currently seeking students to commence from Term 1 2027 onwards. Visit the postgraduate research projects page to view available projects and express your interest.