Research Supervisor Connect
Are you passionate about transforming health care for the future? Join a collaborative research project between the University of Sydney and the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA).
This is a unique opportunity to conduct policy-relevant, high-impact research at the intersection of health economics, digital innovation, and health system reform. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience working alongside leading academic researchers and senior policymakers while making a tangible contribution to shaping the future of virtual care in Australia.
Camperdown - School of Public Health
Virtual health care has the potential to revolutionise health care delivery—offering patients greater access, reducing pressure on hospitals, cutting travel costs, and contributing to the decarbonisation of the health system. However, despite its potential, virtual care remains underutilised in Australia due to fragmented funding models that fail to capture its true value.
The objectives of the project are:
o Build the economic evidence for optimal use of virtual care across settings such as primary, emergency, acute, aged care and sub-acute settings.
o Develop valuation and cost models incorporating factors such as efficiency, access, equity, workforce impact, environmental outcomes, and patient preferences.
o Provide actionable policy recommendations to inform the design of future funding mechanisms that reward the full value of virtual care.
The expected outcomes:
o A suite of models and tools to support prioritisation of virtual care investments.
o Academic publications and policy briefs targeted at national and state decision-makers.
o Contribution to broader efforts toward a sustainable, equitable, and digitally enabled health system.
Interested applicants should reach out to the Lead Supervisor for further information on the application process. A prospective student will need to submit the following documents:
o Two-page Expression of Interest outlining how you would design a research program that aligns with the project aims.
o One-page cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the scholarship.
o Curriculum Vitae (CV) including academic achievements, relevant work experience, and a copy of your academic transcript.
Selection Criteria:
· Background in health economics, public health, economics, policy, statistics, or related disciplines.
· Strong analytical skills and demonstrated interest in health system reform or digital health.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with industry stakeholders.
· Domestic student (Australian citizenship)
To apply for a PhD, you need to demonstrate sufficient prior research experience and capability. In most cases, you will have either:
· a bachelor's degree with first or upper second-class honours, or
· a master's degree performed at a high academic standard, which includes a substantial component of research, or
· an equivalent qualification that demonstrates research experience, excellence and capability.
The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3670