Understanding women’s health in Multiple Sclerosis

About the research project

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune and neurodegenerative condition that disproportionately affects women. While much research has focused on neurological outcomes, less attention has been given to the unique health challenges faced by women living with MS, including reproductive health, menstruation, sexual dysfunction, and their potential roles in disease progression and symptom management. These factors are critical, as hormonal changes may influence immune function, MS symptom severity, and overall quality of life, yet remain poorly understood.

This project aims to leverage data from the Australian MS Longitudinal Study (AMSLS) to explore key aspects of women’s health in MS. The study will analyse existing survey data to be collected on reproductive health, menstrual and sexual dysfunction experiences, alongside MS symptoms and disease activity. By combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, this research will provide insights into how hormonal and gender-specific factors interact with MS progression and symptom burden.

The findings will inform clinical practice and advocacy efforts, contributing to more holistic, gender-sensitive care models for MS. This interdisciplinary project offers an opportunity to advance knowledge in an under-researched area, supporting improved health outcomes and quality of life for women living with MS.

Research aims:

1. Characterise the prevalence and patterns of reproductive health issues, menstrual irregularities, and sexual dysfunction among women with MS.
2. Examine associations between hormonal factors (e.g., menstrual cycle changes) and MS disease activity and quality of life. Investigate whether they act as mediators or moderators of disease outcomes.
3. Explore lived experiences through qualitative data to understand how women perceive and manage these women’s health challenges in daily life.

The project will employ advanced statistical and epidemiological methods to analyse longitudinal data and identify key predictors of health outcomes. Prospective applicants should have an interest in epidemiology, biostatistics, and women’s health research, as well as a commitment to improving person-centered care in MS.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Alice Saul

Funding

Applicants will self fund their studies, no Living Allowance scholarship is available for this project.

If successful, international applicants may receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for 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:

• 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:

• Degree that meets the University’s PhD minimal entry criteria in health, public health and/or epidemiology
• Statistical expertise at Honours level or above

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• This project is classified under the Field of Research code 111706 (Epidemiology) and the Socio‑Economic Objective 920111 (Nervous System). Prior experience in these areas is considered advantageous

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Alice Saul to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. 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.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

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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