University College Cork
Job title:
INFANT Research Centre PhD Scholarship Opportunity
Company:
University College Cork
Job description
See Advert for detailsINFANT Research Centre PhD Scholarship OpportunityStart Date: April – October 2025
School: INFANT Research Centre
College: College of Medicine & Health
Contract Type: Whole-Time, Fixed-Term 36 months
Job Type: Research
Salary: See advert for detailsProject OutlineTitle: Second trimester pregnancy loss – investigation, management and carePregnancy loss is the most common complication of pregnancy. Overall, 0.5-1% pregnancies end in pregnancy loss in the second trimester with a 5-7% recurrence risk for second trimester miscarriage and an overlapping causative aetiology with both preterm birth and stillbirth.Clinical presentations of second trimester pregnancy loss can be mixed and difficult to interpret, emphasising the challenges of identifying multiple contributory pathologies. Investigation of second-trimester miscarriage is often incomplete, and the lack of consistent availability of perinatal pathology services has precluded post-mortem examination at early gestations. Finally, the absence of a universally agreed classification for second-trimester pregnancy loss also results in discrepancies and misclassification in published literature. Understanding the precise cause of second-trimester miscarriage through a complete process of investigation is crucial for guiding management in and counselling for subsequent pregnancies.There is also a dearth of research on experience of second-trimester miscarriage; available evidence demonstrates deficits surrounding communication and information, and a lack of compassionate psychological follow-up care. There is a lack of knowledge and awareness of second trimester miscarriage, with people often unprepared for the realities of such losses including labour and birth. These issues also influence people’s experiences in the workplace surrounding their loss, with many feeling unsupported. This, in part, relates to the lack of leave and/or maternity benefit entitlement – and indeed acknowledgement of loss – for people who experience a second trimester miscarriage.Further research, specifically focused on second trimester pregnancy loss is required and can have an important contribution to clinical current practice, standardising investigations and care. This project aims to explore the lived experience of woman and men who experience second trimester pregnancy loss and to review medical inpatient management issues, focusing on complications that cause morbidity and prolonged hospital stay. Findings from perinatal pathology reviews of second trimester loss over 15 years will be examined and reported to additionally inform and evaluate a new clinico-pathological classification system for second trimester pregnancy loss to guide management in any future pregnancy.Research outputs will include papers, a national clinical guideline, policy guidelines and proposal for a national register of second trimester pregnancy loss as well as planned implementation of a certificate of loss for bereaved parents.Candidate Profile/Requirements:The successful candidate will be a highly motivated, independent and enthusiastic researcher with a strong interest in conducting original interdisciplinary doctoral research. A Masters Degree/Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent qualification (NFQ Level 9) or demonstrable relevant experience in the described research area is needed. Medical graduates are expected to have an honours degree (NFQ level 8), and some previous clinical research experience is expected. A good track record of academic achievement will be essential. Previous research experience is essential, including competency in using online databases, and excellent analytical and communication skills in English, both written and verbal. The successful candidate should also have an understanding of the maternity services and/or perinatal health issues.If English is not your first language you will need to satisfy the English language requirement:IELTS: 6.5 – with no individual section lower than 6.0TOEFL: 90 – with minimum scores as follows: Listening – 20; Reading – 19; Speaking – 21; Writing – 20DESIRED SKILLSDemonstrable experience of conducting quantitative research, using and extracting clinical data, and particularly in the areas of secondary data analysis using statistical software packages would be an advantage.An understanding of the maternity services in Ireland, including legislation, guidelines and audits relevant to pregnancy loss and/or perinatal death would be beneficial.A capacity to work in an international team and multi-disciplinary environments is desired.Applications from candidates with a background in medicine, midwifery or related clinical disciplines relevant to the research area are particularly encouraged.Key Responsibilities & Duties:
- To conduct a specified programme of research under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator/Project Leader.
- To engage in appropriate training and professional development opportunities as required by the Principal Investigator, School or College in order to develop research skills and competencies.
- To engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which they are engaged, as directed by, with the support of and under the supervision of a Principal Investigator.
- To engage in the wider research and scholarly activities of the research group, School or College.
- To carry out administrative work to support the programme of research.
- Participate in internal/external networks for the exchange of information and to form
relationships for future research collaboration.Scholarship Details:The PhD Scholarship is funded by Féileacáin (The Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland).The successful candidate will be working under the supervision of Prof Keelin O’Donoghue at the Pregnancy Loss Research Group within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and based at the INFANT Research Centre. The candidate will work closely with clinical/academic collaborators based at Cork University Maternity Hospital.The scholarship is planned to start in July 2025.The scholarship funding includes a stipend of €25,000 per annum, also covers University fees of up to a maximum of €5,900 per annum as well as funds for relevant consumables and conference travel. The scholarship is tenable for three years.The successful applicant will receive a computer for the duration of this project, with access to the advanced computing facilities and support provided within the INFANT Centre. They will be provided with appropriate desk space, as well as being able to access funding to support registration and travel costs for appropriate conferences. The appointee will be provided with learning and networking opportunities to attain the highest standards of research excellence and support his/her career development.Further Information:Please contact the following for more information and guidance regarding the scholarship and making an application:Prof Keelin O’Donoghue, INFANT Centre, University College Cork, Email:To Apply:Submit an electronic copy of your Curriculum Vitae along with a cover letter that clearly describes why you are interested in and are suitable for this research position. Please include the contact details of two referees. These documents should be emailed to Prof Keelin O’Donoghue ( ).The successful scholarship awardee will then have to submit a formal application through the University Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC) ( ) where qualifications will need to be validated.Closing date:The closing date for applications is Friday, 14th February 2025Interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place in February 2025
Expected salary
Location
Cork
Job date
Sat, 18 Jan 2025 23:49:23 GMT
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