Early blood transfusion to prevent cardiovascular deterioration in preterm piglets

There are currently no clinical interventions that effectively prevent cardiovascular deterioration in premature babies. This project will test whether an early transfusion in preterm neonates can prevent low blood volume and maintain oxygen supply to the developing brain. This protocol has been developed by this group over the past 15 years and is in the final stage of pre-clinical testing. If successful, this protocol will provide a rational evidence base for the development of a clinical trial in preterm infants that could reduce the high rates of adverse neurodevelopmental outcome in this vulnerablel population. This is a fully funded project (NHMRC Ideas gratn commencing 2024).

This is a multidisciplinary team, led by Dr Yvonne Eiby, comprised of internationally recognised clinical researchers, neonatologists, scientists and vets. Our research group focuses on improving the clinical care of infants in order to protect the developing brain. We foster a supportive research environment for the training and development of scientists and clinical researchers with varied backgrounds and interests. We are based at the Perinatal Research Centre in UQ Centre for Clinical Research on the RBWH campus, facilitating close connections with our clinical collaborators at the Grantley Stable Neonatal Intensive Unit.

The PhD candidate will gain hands-on experience in our pre-clinical tertiary-level neonatal intensive care unit and be trained in intensive care techniques such as intubation, ventilation, and catheterization. Previous work with animals in not necessary. The candidate will also be trained in laboratory techniques as required by the project.