Developing an Evidence-Based Model for Building Trust in Australian Stem Cell Research and Therapies

The Project

This project will explore emerging cell research and therapies and how both researchers and publics can develop trust in methods, processes, and the products of this research.  For, example, researchers use cell lines specifically developed for experiments—do they need registries and open databases so they can verify the provenance of those cell lines?  What do publics want from this new area of research so that they can trust the researchers and the institutions who oversee the research?  Are there new ‘commons’ approaches that might give security to researchers and being to develop trust from publics?  Can open science techniques assist this area of research?  

Eligibility

Admission to a Doctor of Philosophy degree at ANU requires:

1. An Australian Bachelor degree with at least Second Class or its international equivalent, or
2. Another degree with a significant research/thesis component that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1), or
3. A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience related to the field of study that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1).

Further information relating to eligibility can be found on the ANUs website: http://www.anu.edu.au/study/apply/anu-postgraduate-research-domestic-and-international-applications

The Candidate

The successful applicant will have a passion for science communication and interdisciplinary research. They will have a background in a relevant discipline and an awareness/knowledge of social research methods. They will also possess strong interpersonal skills, curiosity, strong writing skills, and be able to work effectively as part of a small team and also independently.

Supervisors

Professor Joan Leach, Director, Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, ANU

Funding

The successful applicant with be based in the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) at the ANU. Scholarships are available for both domestic and international applicants, and CPAS will work with the successful applicant to guide them through the scholarship process.

To Apply

To be considered for this position, in the first instance please forward a current CV (2-page max.) and short cover letter (1-page max.) to Prof. Joan Leach (joan.leach@anu.edu.au).  In the cover letter, be sure to let us know why you are the perfect candidate based on the skills outlined above. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis as they are received, and this position will remain open until filled.