Flinders, Community Bridging Services (CBS) Inc. and Department for Health and Wellbeing Industry PhD Scholarship: Health Services Research

Change lives and change the world with impactful PhD research co-funded by Flinders University, Community Bridging Services Inc. and Department for Health and Wellbeing.

The aim of this collaborative research project is to undertake an evaluation of the sector-leading Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program This program helps people with severe mental illness enter and maintain meaningful employment, whilst concurrently supporting their recovery and improving their quality of life. Bringing significant industry experience to the project, Community Bridging Services (CBS) Inc. is a long-standing provider of innovative strength-based solutions to supporting people with a disability, and provide services across South Australia. Caring Futures Institute believes people with a disability benefit for social and economic inclusion, and has complimentary research strengths in health services and disability research. Together we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project.  

This inspiring project involves:

• undertaking a mixed methods social return on investment analysis of the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program in the context of Australian public mental health services
• undertaking an economic evaluation to understand the costs and benefits of the program

This Scholarship offers:

• $33,990 (2024 full-time rate, indexed annually) per annum tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• A 3-month industry internship allowing you to apply your research into practice during candidature
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges
• A collaborative research community where you can enhance your skills and build your network to progress your research career

To be eligible for the Scholarship you will need:

• to be an Australian citizen, New Zealand citizen, an Australian permanent resident or have, or are eligible to apply for, a relevant international visa; and
• meet Flinders University PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher; and
• Scholarship recipients are expected to take up their studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the Industry Partner, up to maximum of 3 months from the time of acceptance of the scholarship.  In exceptional circumstances and with approval of the Industry Partner and the University, this time may be extended to 6 months.
• Currently have or are able to apply for a National Police Criminal History and Vulnerable Person Related Employment Check.

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• Qualifications or previous experience in health, psychology or related discipline (e.g. public health, occupational therapy, nursing, disability).