Improving Shiftworkers’ Sleep and Physical Activity Using Machine Learning

Summary

We are offering an exciting PhD opportunity to investigate innovative solutions for shiftworkers’ sleep and physical activity challenges using machine learning (note that AI/ML experience is not a requirement). As a PhD student in our research team, you will join CQUniversity’s Appleton Institute in Adelaide, where you will work closely with leading researchers and peers.

The scholarship is provided by CQUniversity and awarded through a competitive selection process. We are currently seeking expressions of interest (EOI) for the project likely to commence in July 2025. Following the EOI period, suitable candidates will be invited to formally apply. The scholarship provides a tenure of three years, with a PhD submission expected within four years of commencement.

·      Location: Central Queensland University, Adelaide (by distance negotiable but must be based in Australia).

·      Scholarship Value: $36,000 (AUD) per annum (tax exempt).

·      Duration: 3 years.

·      Proposed Start Date: July 2025 (negotiable).

Project Overview

This project aims to develop a smartphone-enabled digital assistant to optimise sleep and physical activity for Australians working non-standard hours. By leveraging advanced machine learning and wearable technology, we aim to provide personalised recommendations tailored to the needs of shiftworkers, on-call workers, and gig workers. The research outcomes are expected to support improved workplace health, productivity, and safety.

About You

We are looking for motivated candidates who meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements

·      Completed a Bachelor Degree with Honours I or IIA, a Master’s Degree, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant field (public health, psychology, sport and exercise science, etc.).

·      Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident of Australia, or an international student (tuition fees for international students will be waived).

·      Approved for admission to a Doctor of Philosophy program at CQUniversity.

·      Able to enrol full-time as an internal candidate at CQUniversity’s Adelaide campus.

·      No prior Commonwealth or CQUniversity-funded research scholarship, unless terminated within six months.

·      Not receiving an equivalent award or scholarship that provides more than 75% of the stipend rate.

Desired Skills

·      Strong writing and communication skills.

·      Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to work independently and in a team, meet deadlines, and prioritise tasks.

·      Willingness to travel for data collection or conferences, potentially nationally or internationally.

·      No previous experience with AI or machine learning is needed.

About the Appleton Institute

The Appleton Institute is a multidisciplinary research institute known for its excellence in areas such as sleep and circadian science, occupational health and safety, and operational readiness. The successful candidate will benefit from a dynamic research environment, collaboration opportunities with industry and community partners, and support from world-leading experts in sleep and physical activity research.

How to Apply

Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) via email to Dr. Grace Vincent at g.vincent@cqu.edu.au as soon as possible. For additional information, you can reach out to Dr. Vincent at g.vincent@cqu.edu.au or by phone at +61 (08) 8378 4518.

Join our collaborative and innovative research team and contribute to impactful workplace health and safety research!