Improving outcomes for infants born at the edge of viability

There remains a significant paucity of evidence worldwide to guide the care of infants born at the edge of viability. 

Babies born at less than 26 weeks' gestation and/or weighing less than 750 grams experience the highest rates of mortality and major neonatal morbidity, yet many aspects of their care continue to be informed by evidence extrapolated from broader preterm populations.

The Micro Premi Study at Mater Mothers' Hospital is a strategic research and quality improvement initiative dedicated to improving outcomes for these highly vulnerable infants through the generation, translation, and implementation of evidence across the continuum of care. 

We are seeking a Higher Degree Research (HDR) candidate to undertake an innovative research program focused on an area of Tiny Baby Care. 

You will work within a multidisciplinary clinical and research team to identify priority gaps in knowledge, evaluate current practice, and develop evidence-informed strategies that improve outcomes for infants born at the limits of viability

You will be based at Aubigny Place, South Brisbane. The Higher Degree program will include: 

1. Epidemiology of local and international datasets
2. Quality assessments
3. Delphi rounds
4. If suitable (and subject to discussion) - clinical trials and cohort studies

You will be supported by a biostatistician, a health economist, and a research officer. 

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of neonatology and tiny baby care would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of evidence synthesis, clinical care, and implementation science and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of neonatal intensive care, project development, and statistics is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 23 November, 2026 23 November, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Associate Professor Luke Jardine (Luke.Jardine@mater.org.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: VIABILITY-JARDINE
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/improving-outcomes-infants-born-edge-viability

Submit an EOI