banner research scheme.png

UniSA Department of Rural Health Research Scheme

The UniSA Department of Rural Health Research Scheme aims to provide rural South Australian health practitioners with an opportunity to build their skills in research. Scheme participants will undertake a research activity, under the supervision of researchers from the Department of Rural Health at the University of South Australia, and be paid for their time, 1 day per week for 6 months (180 hours) to work on the project.

Project ideas will be initiated by the rural health practitioner and refined in collaboration with research staff from the Department of Rural Health to ensure feasibility within the given time frame and alignment with the Department’s goals. This scheme provides health practitioners with an opportunity to gain research skills and experience, build their research track record, establish collaborations and explore pathways for further development of research skills through postgraduate study.

Goals

  1. To build research capacity within the South Australian rural health workforce
  2. To conduct research that is translatable to practice
  3. To improve rural health outcomes through evidence-based practice

Selection Critera

  1. A university degree, and experience working in, an area related to health care
  2. An interest in research
  3. Currently works in rural, remote or regional South Australia as a health practitioner (Modified Monash Model category 2-7, see https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/health-workforce-locator/app to check your location)
  4. Letter (or email) of support from their current line manager
  5. Interest in pursuing a research question relevant to improving rural health outcomes

Renumeration

UniSA Department of Rural Health Research Scheme participants will be paid for their time, 1 day per week over 6 months, at a rate that is commensurate with their qualifications and experience.

Key Dates

  • Applications due by: 1 July 2025
  • Notification of outcomes: 16 July 2025
  • Program commencement:  1 August 2025

How to Apply

Expressions of interest for the program close on 1 July 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed via Zoom. To apply, please complete the form and email to kate.gunn@unisa.edu.au   

Time Commitment 

Scheme participants will be paid for 1 day per week for 6 months (180 hours). Research time is to be worked in blocks of at least 3 hours. Some out of hours work may be required.

You Will Need

Access to your own computer and Internet. Program participants will primarily work remotely but may attend the University to work within the Department of Rural Health on selected days.

How We Will Support You

Program participants will be provided with training opportunities through the University of South Australia. Training will be tailored to the needs of their individual project, but in general would cover research project design, ethics applications, data collection, analysis and reporting. Health practitioners will be provided with guidance and support from a dedicated project officer.

Questions

If you have any questions about the program please contact Dr Kate Gunn on 0417852537 or kate.gunn@unisa.edu.au