The impact of allergic rhinitis on sleep and cognition
The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a world-leading sleep and respiratory science institute. In partnership with Macquarie, you can investigate allergic rhinitis in adolescents and its impact on cognition and sleep.
Work with clinical medical teams and neuropsychological science experts. Sponsored by Bayer, the program offers the opportunity to engage with pharmaceutical professionals and gain valuable industry exposure during your PhD.
Key details
- 20258130
- PhD
- Applications close on 31 October 2026
- Domestic
- Medicine and health, psychological sciences
- $39,700 p.a.
Full project title: Sleep and paediatric allergic rhinitis cognitive outcomes (SPARCO) study
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent condition in the paediatric population, significantly impacting the quality of life, school performance and overall wellbeing, not only of the individuals but of their carers too.
Despite the availability of treatments, there are challenges in managing AR effectively, especially in Australia where the majority of AR treatments are available over the counter in a pharmacy without a prescription.
Investigations in Australia have revealed up to 90.3% of the paediatric population with AR have moderate-severe residual burden and that AR negatively impacted on schoolwork, sleep and other activities. Research with objectives measures of sleep and cognitive impairment in children with AR has not been conducted in an Australian paediatric population thus far.
About the scholarship
This study will aim to evaluate the mediating and moderating impact of residual burden of AR on sleep and cognitive functioning in children aged 12 to 18 relative to controls without AR.
The scholarship is sponsored by Bayer. Throughout the candidature, there will be regular opportunity to liaise with team at Bayer and have exposure to the pharmaceutical industry.
Scholarship to commence 1 February 2027.
Availability
This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake a direct entry three-year PhD program.
Components
The scholarship comprises:
- a tuition fee offset/scholarship
- a living allowance stipend.
The value of each stipend scholarship is $39,700 per annum (full time, indexed) for three years.
How to apply
Before submitting your application, submit an expression of interest to both:
- Dr Rick Wassing at rick.wassing@woolcock.org.au
- Dr Biljana Cvetkovski at biljana.cvetkovski@woolcock.org.au.