Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2024
Campus
Hobart, Launceston
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
This practice-based research builds on the University of Tasmania's Active Work Laboratory digital solution Exertime, which has already produced positive health metrics in Tasmanian Government employees by interrupting prolonged bouts of seated work (see lab webpage for published results).
This trans-disciplinary research works at the intersection of User Experience (UX), health sciences and behavioural psychology, translating the knowledge from health sciences and behavioural psychology into an integrated UX across multiple workplace environments. The proposed project will focus on UX approaches and methodologies that positively contribute to uptake and adherence of disruptive, e- health applications in the contemporary workplace. UX environments may include digital, textual, wearable, and environmental contexts. The aim is to design, develop, test and implement best-practices for UX for a workplace e-health application within a field-based research study with a suitable industry partner.
Potential research methods may include (but are not limited to) a range of qualitative and quantitative UX methodology: concept testing, survey, participatory design, user observation and usability testing. Understanding effective prompting systems, models of technology acceptance and how to change perceptions and behaviours in contemporary workplace environments are key outcomes of this
research, as is commercialisation and the further development of existing IP. Applicants are required to have a UX / UI or product design background and experience. Applicants with coding and/or machine learning skills are preferred and are strongly encouraged to
apply. Supervision, while based in the School of Architecture and Design, will be trans-disciplinary, with co-
supervision in other relevant areas including health education and behavioural psychology.
Primary Supervisor
Meet Dr Vanessa WardFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applications are open to Domestic and International applicants
- Applications are open to applications from Design & UX discipline background only
- English language score must be above minimum entry requirements for this project
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- UX / UI or product design background and experience
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Coding and/or machine learning skills desirable
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Vanessa Ward to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2024.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
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