Evaluation of an integrative medicine model of care

NICM Health Research Institute

Lead Researcher: A/Prof Carolyn Ee

About the project

NICM Health Research Institute is offering a PhD scholarship to a highly motivated and capable PhD candidate to work with the translational research team on evaluation of a co-designed integrative medicine model of care at Next Practice Western Sydney Integrative Health, WSU’s academic integrative medicine centre and the first centre of its kind in Australia. The project is funded through a donation by an anonymous donor.

The proposed project is an ongoing, prospective, observation study evaluating the WSIH centre. WSIH is modelled on centres at other leading universities such as Harvard University. The aim of this project is to examine the value and safety of this model of care for both patients and practitioners/staff providing care. Within this model, WSIH integrates evidence-based complementary therapies with mainstream healthcare delivered within a team-based collaborative care setting. WSIH is embedded within a research-based culture and focuses on translation of research into the clinical setting to inform clinical program development and health service delivery. The project involves collection of patient outcome data in a patient registry to evaluate the model and strengthen and build on scientific evidence to inform future treatment for better health outcomes, as well as qualitative evaluation. The patient registry will serve as a vital repository of real-world patient data that will expand the evidence base for integrative medicine. The framework of this project was designed to provide high-value care that meets the NSW Health “Quadruple Aim” to improve patient outcomes, reduce per capita cost of care, provide quality healthcare and improve patient and practitioner satisfaction and wellbeing.

NICM is Australia’s global leader in integrative and complementary medicine research and policy. As an Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) 5 rating institute, we are globally recognised for our world-class research and innovations in integrative and complementary medicine. The project will be based at NICM on the Westmead campus.

What does the scholarship provide?

  • Domestic candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs, supported by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset.
  • International candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs. Those with a strong track record will be eligible for a tuition fee waiver. [
  • Support for conference attendance, fieldwork and additional costs as approved by School/Institute.

    • [International candidates are required to hold an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance policy for the duration of their study in Australia. This cost is not covered by the scholarship.]

Eligibility criteria

We welcome applicants who are keen to expand their skills in rigorous evaluation of models of care. In particular, the project is suitable for candidates with strong interests in data science, Patient-Reported Outcome Measures, and health services research.

The successful applicant should:

  • hold qualifications and experience equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, (iii) Research Masters degree, or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications.
  • demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to statistics and data science, with experience in data linkage to Australian healthcare datasets (eg Medicare Benefits Schedule) making for a highly competitive application
  • have an understanding of the importance of the application of rigor to integrative medicine research
  • be willing to learn about how to manage large patient registries and work with large and complex datasets including data linkage
  • be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level.

    • International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency.

How to apply

Follow the step-by-step instructions on the how to apply for a project scholarship (opens in a new window) page.

  • Note: You do not need to complete 'Step 5: Submit an online application for admission' when applying for this scholarship. You must complete 'Step 6: Submit an online application for a project scholarship'.

Incomplete applications or applications that do not conform to the above requirements will not be considered.

For questions and advice about the research project, please contact Associate Professor  Carolyn Ee: c.ee@westersydney.edu.au

For questions and advice about the scholarship application process, please submit your scholarship enquiry:

  • Currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here
  • Not currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here

You may also find answers to your questions by visiting our Higher Degree Research (HDR) Knowledge Directory.

Applications close 30 April 2024

*Applications close at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT).

Scholarship reference code: PS2024_043_NICM