HDR Scholarship - Menstrual cycle management in female athletes

Although high quality research is lacking, it is generally assumed that the menstrual cycle affects exercise performance of female athletes. This may be due to the occurrence of menstrual symptoms such as pain, fatigue, bloating, gastrointestinal symptoms, and mood disturbances which are reported by 70% of female athletes. Survey-based research suggests that these menstrual symptoms may affect exercise participation and performance, but direct evidence of this causal link is currently lacking. In addition, there is also a lack of research investigating the use of management strategies for menstrual symptoms in female athletes. This research is required to establish guidelines and recommendations that will support the health and well-being of female athletes and allow them to perform at their best across all phases of the menstrual cycle.

Applications close 5pm, Friday 10 March 2023

This scholarship is available over 3 years.

• Stipend of $33,500 per annum tax exempt (2023 rate)
• Relocation allowance of $500-1500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
• International students only:  Tuition fees offset for the duration of 4 years. Single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.

To be eligible you must:

• be either a domestic or international candidate. Domestic includes candidates with Australian Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency or New Zealand Citizenship.
• meet Deakin's PhD entry requirements
• be enrolling full time and hold an honours degree (first class) or an equivalent standard master's degree with a substantial research component.

Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page for further information.

Additional desirable criteria include:

• background in exercise physiology and/or sports science or similar.