ECU - Orthopaedic Research Foundation of WA Scholarship

Australia has some of the highest rates of ACL reconstructions in the world with projections tipped to exponentially rise over the next decade. ACL injuries result in individual and societal burdens. The individual will be unlikely to fully return to sport or competition for 9-12 months, miss extended work periods, and be at high risk of developing post-traumatic osteoarthritis. On the other hand, hospitals are saddled with a massive financial burden, with annual costs for ACLR projected to rise to over 300 million by 2030. However, despite surgical and rehabilitation advances, there is still a significantly increased risk of recurrent or subsequent injury. Examining poorly understood brain mechanisms that may underpin lower-limb deficits after ACLR could inform innovative rehabilitation practices and are urgently needed.

Eligibility

Meet the entry requirements for a PhD at ECU;Enrol in the Doctor of Philosophy full-time at ECU;Have a bachelor’s degree with first class honours or master’s degree in exercise and sports science, physiotherapy or equivalent field