Bachelor of Health Science (Honours) project and supervisor list

Occupational therapists are clinical professionals that provide specialised care to individuals in a range of mental and physical health settings, including forensic mental health settings. Forensic mental health settings in Victoria include secure hospitals, prisons and community settings. Consumers within forensic mental health settings are individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness and have come into contact with the criminal justice system through various legal pathways. There are some key differences for occupational therapists working in forensic mental health settings as compared to those working in general mental health settings, such as consumer characteristics and the restrictive nature of the setting. Occupational therapists working within general mental health settings have been identified as at risk for poor workplace wellbeing (Scanlan & Hazelton, 2019). Furthermore, health professionals working in secure settings are generally at-risk for burnout, low subjective wellbeing and poor mental health (Cramer et al., 2020). Unsurprisingly, these settings are also often characterised by high staff burnout and turnover (Cramer et al., 2020). It is important for forensic mental health organisations and employers to understand which factors are associated with poor workplace wellbeing, including burnout, and turnover intention. 

Objective: To describe workplace wellbeing (e.g., job satisfaction, burnout, mental health symptoms, psychological wellbeing and resilience) and turnover intention amongst occupational therapists working within forensic mental health settings.

Methods: A descriptive survey study of OTs employed in forensic mental health settings with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods (depending on student preference/capacity).

Skills in ethical research with human participants

Skills in quantitative and/or qualitative research design

Quantitative and/or quantitative data collection skills (e.g. surveys, interviews)

Quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis (e.g. SPSS, NVivo)

Writing for publication

Within the secure inpatient settings at the Thomas Embling Hospital, consumers (i.e., patients) are supported to attend therapeutic programs to promote their recovery (i.e., clinical, personal, offence specific, and wellbeing). The programs focus on; physical and mental health, substance use and offending behaviours, family and social networks, and education and creativity. The purpose of the proposed study is to describe efficacy of these programs with clinical data and key stakeholder perspectives.

Key partner: Forensicare (Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health) is the state-wide specialist provider of forensic mental health services in Victoria. Forensicare is a mental health service and clinicians provides best-evidence clinical care across three service directorates: Thomas Embling 3 Hospital (TEH), Prison Mental Health Services, and Community Forensic Mental Health Service. The TEH is a secure forensic mental health hospital, located adjacent to extensive parklands in suburban Melbourne. The hospital provides acute and continuing care programs and includes a dedicated women’s unit.

Methods: A mixed methods design of routinely collected clinical data and perceptions of multidisciplinary clinicians, consumers, and significant others (e.g., family members, friends).

Outcomes: Summation and dissemination of quantitative and qualitative data to meet thesis and peer refereed publication requirements. 

Learning and implementing laboratory techniques involving cultivating and maintaining cell lines

Skeletal muscle cell viability assays

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (gene expression assays)

Design and implementation of a health literacy program.

Co-ordinating a health literacy-based intervention including engaging with community members and industry partners.

Research skills including literature review, data analysis, and writing a scientific paper

Genetics

RNA interference

Immunohistochemistry

Cloning using CRISPR

Fluorescence microscopy

Health literacy (HL) encompasses social and cognitive skills that influence an individual’s motivation and ability to access, understand, and use health information to maintain and promote good health (Budhathoki et al., 2019). Factors contributing to poor health literacy include inadequate education, learning disabilities, age-related cognitive decline, and the need for regular practice to maintain proficiency (Nutbeam et al., 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted public health in Australia and globally, beyond the immediate risks of illness and death. These effects include a rise in mental health issues (Botha et al., 2023; Kleanthous et al., 2023; Zhao et al., 2023), delayed access to healthcare due to lockdowns and restrictions, and missed opportunities for routine health screenings. To improve HL on both national and international levels, a comprehensive tool for measuring health literacy across populations is essential (Pelikan et al., 2022). The European Health Literacy Survey (HLS-EU) Consortium, comprising countries such as Austria, Germany, Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain, developed the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire (HLS-EU-Q) to explore the relationship between health literacy and health outcomes (Sørensen et al., 2013; Nutbeam & Lloyd, 2021; Andrulis & Brach, 2007) from a public health perspective. Health literacy also includes the ability to read and comprehend health-related materials (Mitsutake et al., 2020).

Healthcare professionals serve as key points of communication regarding health literacy for patients. They play a crucial role in shaping and promoting healthy behaviors through patient education during interactions (Tavolacci et al., 2018). The goal is to empower individuals to make informed health-related decisions, such as visiting a General Practitioner (GP) for check-ups, monitoring health risks, and adhering to regular screening programs (Sørensen et al., 2012). Health literacy is widely recognized as a tool for improving health-seeking behaviors and health outcomes globally, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic (Nutbeam, 2017; Paakkari & Okan, 2020). However, disparities in health literacy persist due to differences in knowledge, attitudes, socioeconomic inequalities, disadvantages, and generational gaps (Leung et al., 2022; McCaffery et al., 2020). Factors such as education level, field of study, employment status, age, gender, income, and language proficiency significantly influence health literacy (Nutbeam & Lloyd, 2021). University students enrolled in health science courses play a vital role in society, as they are expected to possess a high level of knowledge about health and care issues (Dashti et al., 2022; Kuhn et al., 2021). Health science students represent the future of health care professionals and will champion and act as exemplars advocating for healthy lifestyles (Tavolacci, et al., 2018). Health science students are hence exposed to information on health care as part of their curriculum and are, therefore, assumed to be highly health literate to meet the health literacy needs of their future patients.

Their knowledge, attitudes, and practices not only impact their own lives but also influence the broader community. The level of knowledge these students hold about health issues can be a key factor in the effectiveness of health education (Dashti et al., 2022; Kuhn et al., 2021). Therefore, it is essential to assess the health literacy (HL) of health science students and examine its relation to disease prevention. Moreover, today’s students are tomorrow’s professionals, who must demonstrate strong HL and experience before graduation, not only to achieve excellent grades but also to provide high-quality healthcare services in their careers. While previous research has explored HL in the general population, there is little known about Australian health science students' understanding of HL. Thus, the current study aims to assess HL among Swinburne's 6 health science students, and the factors associated with it.

In this proposed project, students will take on the responsibility of conducting a comprehensive literature review, refining the project's objectives based on the identified research gaps from the literature review, and finalizing the research questions. Additionally, students will play a crucial role in the process of obtaining approval from the Swinburne Ethics Committee to secure permission for using the online survey in collecting data from students. Once ethics approval is granted, students will proceed to collect the data using online survey and will be in charge of conducting the data analysis. Subsequently, students will be responsible for preparing reports based on the results obtained from the statistical analysis.

Research skills

Statistical analysis and modelling

Interviewing skills

Ethical research practices

Writing and communication

Critical thinking

Interdisciplinary knowledge

Advocacy and policy analysis

Empathy and cultural sensitivity

Project management

According to World Health Organization (WHO), intimate partner violence (IPV) is a harmful behaviour in intimate relationships resulting from psychological abuse, physical violence, or sexual coercion (L. Heise & García‐Moreno, 2012). IPV against women is one of the most common forms of violence which is a global human right and public health concern (Abramsky et al., 2011). In recent years, monitoring on violence against women has increased through nationwide surveys such as the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS). According to the WHO, the lifetime prevalence of physical or sexual violence ranges between 15% and 71%, with the lowest rates reported for Japan and the highest for Ethiopia, Peru, and Bangladesh (Garcia‐Moreno et al., 2006). The prevalence of IPV against women is on average 30% globally, and much higher in South‐East Asian (SEA) region (World Health Organization, 2021). One of the vital indicators to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.2 set by WHO in 2015 is reduction of IPV, which is to eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation. Many socio‐demographic factors were found to be associated with the prevalence of IPV, which varied from country to country including household financial status, countrywide education level, per‐capita income and rule of law (L. L. Heise & Kotsadam, 2015). Studies on both developed and developing countries observed some common socio‐demographic factors associated with IPV such as age, race, gender and genetic predisposition, mental disorders, abusive childhood, exposure to paternal violence, education and income (Abramsky et al., 2019; Delara, 2016; Helweg‐Larsen, 2013; Naved et al., 2017, 2018).

In LMICs, attitudinal data on IPV against women began to accumulate in the 1990s, when the surveys such as Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) began to ask whether wife beating was justified (Naved et al., 2017; Yount et al., 2014). By evaluating 88 national surveys on lower‐income countries, Yount et al. (2014) observed that justification of wife beating ranged from 4 % to 90. However, there is a lack of recent large‐ scale population‐based research on IPV among women in LMICs in Asia, their attitude toward IPV, and possible actionable factors which can be used for interventions to assist in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 5.2 by 2030. The aim of this study is to conduct an of the proportion of women in the selected LMICs in Asia who hold the attitudes of accepting IPV against women; to assess its association with exposure to media and other sociodemographic factors; and to identify the most vulnerable cohorts. It is could be hypothesized that exposure to media would be associated with women’s attitude toward accepting IPV in the selected LMICs and the regions with higher acceptance rate of IPV would be the ones with having relatively lower rate of media exposure. In this proposed project, students will take on the responsibility of conducting a comprehensive literature review, refining the project's objectives based on the identified research gaps from the literature review, and finalizing the research questions. Additionally, students will play a crucial role in the process of obtaining approval from the Swinburne Ethics Committee to secure permission for using secondary data. Once ethics approval is granted, students will proceed to access the data from the MICS site and will be in charge of conducting the data analysis. Subsequently, students will be responsible for preparing reports based on the results obtained from the statistical analysis.

Statistical analysis and modelling interviewing skills

Ethical research practices

Writing and communication

Critical thinking

Interdisciplinary knowledge

Advocacy and policy analysis

Empathy and cultural sensitivity project management

The rapid development and growing accessibility of information and communication technology (ICT), such as text messaging, mobile devices, and social meeting spaces, has provided youth new opportunities for social engagement, communication, and relationship development (Kravchenko 2020; Dayana et al. 2020). A large percentage of youth use the internet and digital technologies regularly. According to the most recent figures on the ownership of digital devices, more than 62% of youth use mobile devices as their primary means of accessing online information (Rideout et al. 2022). The dark side of internet use among youth is that they are susceptible to online exploitation and abuse (Zych, Farrington & Ttofi 2019). This conduct is also known as cyberbullying (CB). For example, (1) harassing the victim by sending threatening, intimidating, insulting, or disparaging text messages or emails, (2) making repeated anonymous phone calls in an attempt to intimidate and frighten the victim, (3) impersonating and manipulating photographs to ridicule or create false image of the victim, and (4) exclude and 8 isolate the victim from social network (Garaigordobil & Martínez-Valderrey 2018). There are several tools for measuring cyberbullying, including the European Cyberbullying Intervention Projects Questionnaire (ECIPQ). Not all tools are equally suitable for application in different populations or their current structure.

This honours project, with a unique focus, aims to review the current tools in measuring cyberbullying and investigate the psychometric properties of the European Cyberbullying Intervention Projects Questionnaire (ECIPQ) in measuring cyberbullying using Rasch analysis among Malaysian youths. Data: Primary data is available on 463 young Malaysian adults aged 18- 30. Outcome: A validated tool which is potential to publish in a Q2 Journal. Required skill: Strong analytical skills.

You will be able to demonstrate your skills in using sophisticated Rasch analysis for scale validation.

Development and implementation of an effective exercise training program

Collecting and recording data accurately

Participant recruitment

Analysis of muscle adaptation responses

Writing a scientific research paper

Humans in space experience a microgravity (zero-gravity) environment that can rapidly reduce muscle mass (~4% per day) and bone mineral density (~1 to 2% per month), 9 and negatively influence the cardiovascular system. Concurrent exercise training is used to counteract these health issues, using resistance exercise to ameliorate losses in muscle mass and bone mineral density, and cardiorespiratory exercise to improve cardiovascular function. These modes of exercise can be delivered in space via daily exercise programs using three separate pieces of equipment: machine resistance (muscle size & strength improvement), concentric only cycle ergometer (cardiovascular improvement), and the combined operational load bearing external resistance treadmill (additional bone loading & cardiovascular improvement). Although these devices are functional for the task of improving human health in space, they are excessively heavy and occupy large areas of space, which can be problematic when transporting the equipment from Earth into an orbiting space station. Thus, more compact, lightweight equipment would be of great benefit. 

Currently, exercise prescribed to astronauts on the international space station consists of moderate intensity exercise bouts lasting up to 2 hours per day, which is hugely time demanding. An alternative strategy is to implement high intensity interval training (HIIT), which is known to be shorter in duration and more beneficial than moderate intensity exercise for increasing the magnitude of adaptations for muscle strength, size, and cardiovascular function. An additional benefit to Astronauts performing maximal muscle contractions that are exhibited during HIIT is the rapid rate of muscle force development required for this type of exercise. Improving the rate of force development in exercising muscles of the lower body is known to reduce the likelihood of falls. This is important since a major concern for Astronauts once they return to Earth is the increased likelihood of falls and fractures due to muscle atrophy, impaired ability to rapidly produce force and reduced bone mineral density. Therefore, Astronauts would likely further benefit from more efficient and effective training strategies. A novel solution to improve current exercise procedures in space is to prescribe exercise using the Cyclus 2. The Cyclus 2 is a relatively light weight stationary cycle ergometer (<30kg) that is the first commercially available bidirectional bike, which can be used to perform concentric (traditional) and eccentric modes (motorises the pedals in reverse) of exercise in a high intensity interval format (blending concentric and eccentric exercise intervals). High intensity concentric cycling can improve cardiovascular function, whilst high intensity eccentric cycling is known to improve bone health, increase muscle size and strength, and enhance muscle rate of force development. Therefore, we believe the Cyclus 2 is a feasible alternative to current strategies for improving human health in space. The aim of this pilot research is to explore the effects of short-term eccentric and concentric HIIT versus traditional concurrent training on muscle strength and mass, muscle rate of force development, and cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy adults. 

Ability to critically think, problem solve and publish high quality research

Networking opportunities for future employment in areas related to health and space research

Opportunity to collaborate with the Swinburne Space Institute

Individuals performing resistance exercise can increase their muscle strength, muscle mass, and muscle rate of force development [1]. An alternative mode of exercise, eccentric cycling (resisting against motorised pedals in reverse), is also known to improve muscle strength and size and enhance muscle rate of force development [2]. However, the magnitude of benefit has never been compared between these modes of exercise. Therefore, the aim of this 10 research is to explore the effects of short-term eccentric cycling versus resistance training on muscle strength and mass, and muscle rate of force development in healthy adults.

Understanding the purpose of using resistance training and eccentric cycling exercise for muscle strengthening and gaining muscle mass

Setting up and using testing equipment, specifically Cyclus 2 and GymAware

Conducting ethically approved research

Participant recruitment

Writing a scientific research paper

Ray Breed

This honours project is in conjunction with the Melbourne Mavericks elite netball team who play in the Australian Super League. It will investigate the use of microsensors (Catapult GPS wearable units) for measuring the intensity and volume of accelerations and decelerations that elite netballers experience during training and games - known as ‘player load’. High player loads have sometimes been associated with higher injury rates in various sports e.g. Australian football, soccer. The research questions that are investigated: do higher ‘loads’ (as measured by accelerations and decelerations) relate to greater soreness or missed training/games? Do maximal accelerations and decelerations change throughout the season? Is there a difference between training and games? Does player load change throughout the course of a game?

Data collection methods using GPS units

Data analysis using Catapult and OpenField database software

Interpersonal skills – working with high-performance manager, coaches and players

Dr Evie Kendal

 Students interested in conducting interdisciplinary research that does not necessarily fit into the traditional Honours program are encouraged to contact the supervisor to discuss proposals. Studies that engage with epidemiology, preventive medicine, public health and health promotion are particularly suitable. Projects should have a strong health focus but can adopt methodologies from within communication and media studies, sociology, history/classics, business, health law, education, international relations/politics, science communication, bioethics/philosophy, or related fields. For students interested in pursuing health projects involving engineering or art and design studies, only theoretical projects will be possible (no artefact outputs or prototyping).

Data collection, handling and analysis (mostly qualitative, some quantitative if needed)

Health communication and media studies

Health promotion

Dr Ali Al-Rubaie

The use of imaging anatomy has become an increasingly important method in the teaching of medical anatomy. However, traditional imaging methods used in teaching anatomy have changed over time, largely due to the availability of online resources, but also the development of in-class materials. New methods of teaching include developing and introducing a wide range of technologies/curricula that are presented to the students, such as large touch screens and software to present an extensive number of X- rays, CT, and MRI cases. These methods also enable the educator to change the presentation of most of these cases into 3D reconstructed computerised images that can be rotated, sliced, and labelled using easy clicks/touches. With all these new digital teaching methods, the impact on the students and their learning outcomes is yet to be determined. The aim of this project is to assess the effectiveness of currently used novel methods of digital imaging in anatomy teaching at Swinburne University of Technology.

Extensive experience in different radiographic imaging analysis

Effective knowledge of digital and imaging anatomy curriculum design

Dr Ali Al-Rubaie

The Cribriform plate is a part of the ethmoid bone that supports the olfactory bulb. This mesh-like bony plate allows the passage of the olfactory nerves and the anterior ethmoidal nerves from the neurocranium to the superior regions of the nasal cavity. The cribriform plate forms the medial floor of the anterior cranial fossa and the roof of the nasal cavity. This location makes it vulnerable to fracture. Most the Naso-orbito- ethmoid fractures occur as a result of the direct anterior impact to the upper nasal bridge. Many studies have focused on the anatomy of the nose orbit. However, very little is known about the impact of the Cribriform plate thickness and dimensions, which would help to understand the level of its strength. Both healthy and fractured cribriform plates will be measured using Digital volume CT scan tomography; also, a 3D scanned skull will be measured to standardise the measurements. This novel technique may allow us to determine precise information about the fracture site and severity.

Extensive experience in different radiographic imaging analysis

You will be taught proper dissection techniques, including the use of instruments such as scalpels, forceps, and scissors

Dr Ali Al-Rubaie

Scaphoid is the largest bone of the proximal row of the carpal bones. It articulates with the radius proximally, with the Trapezium, Trapezoid and Capitate distally, and with the Lunate medially. Having a boat-like shape, the scaphoid has proximal and distal poles and a middle narrow part which is the commonest fracture site. This property, in addition to the retrograde vascular supply of the proximal pole, makes studying fractures in the scaphoid bone an important topic for research. Studies show that misdiagnosis and untreated scaphoid fractures usually lead to a significant risk of avascular necrosis in patients; therefore, normal radiography sometimes would not be a sufficient method for diagnosis. Other alternative diagnostic methods range from multiple radiographic surveillance, as a low-cost effective method, to extended immobilisation management. Furthermore, some researchers have undertaken cross-sectional imaging examinations by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), both of which are highly accurate methods. However, these methods come with limitations such as the high level of X-ray exposure and high cost respectively. As a result, this review is to investigate the implications of scaphoid anatomical orientation in obtaining a deeper understanding of radiological visualisation, which may increase the accuracy of the scaphoid fracture diagnosis with minimum exposure and cost.

Extensive experience in different radiographic imaging analysis

You will be taught proper dissection techniques, including the use of instruments such as scalpels, forceps, and scissors

Professor Jason Howitt

When we exercise, it is well known that there are many health benefits associated with the activity. Common to this is the notion that muscles improve their performance and tissues such as the lungs increase in capacity. However, exercise also improves many other areas of our health, many not associated with the activity being undertaken. The Howitt laboratory has been exploring how exercise promotes health benefits through the release of small lipid vesicles called extracellular vesicles. We have found that both aerobic and resistance training can do this, however, at different levels (see references below). We have also identified that exercise plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. In this project you will investigate it if is possible to exercise cells, through the delivery of drugs, to determine if the systematic benefits of exercise can be mimicked in cell culture. Read Guardian article - Exercise in a pill: have scientists really found a drug that’s as good for you as a 10km run?

Tissue culture and growing human cells Isolating extracellular vesicles

Testing cellular uptake

Imaging using confocal microscopy

Being part of the larger Howitt laboratory team

Professor Jason Howitt

Both experimental and epidemiological evidence suggests that pesticides and herbicides such as paraquat are involved in Parkinson’s disease (see links below). However, there is no direct evidence to show that pesticides or herbicides are causal for Parkinsons disease. This information is critical in trying to prevent the use of chemicals that are potentially harmful to humans. In this project you will work on how pesticides and herbicides can trigger a mechanism for the cause of Parkinson’s disease. Using in vitro experiments, you will investigate how these chemicals are able to interfere with endogenous pathways in the cell resulting in the spread of pathogenic α-synuclein, the protein known to cause Parkinson’s. 

ABC article: Scientists work to unravel silent pandemic affecting farmers

Tissue culture and growing human cells

Isolating exosomes

Testing cellular uptake

Imaging using confocal microscopy

Being part of the larger Howitt laboratory team

Professor Jason Howitt

Parkinson’s disease is the only neurodegenerative disorder that is growing faster than our aging population. This suggests that environmental factors, as opposed to genetic factors, are a major cause of the disease. Currently, there are a number of known risk factors for Parkinson’s, however, no identified cause for the disease. In this project you will be working on identifying the role of viral infections in the cause of Parkinson’s disease. The Howitt laboratory has identified a key mechanism for the role of viruses in causing Parkinson’s disease, here you will test the role of viral components in activating this mechanism and use drugs to try and block the spread of the disease.

Tissue culture and growing human cells

Isolating exosomes

Testing cellular uptake

Imaging using confocal microscopy

Being part of the larger Howitt laboratory team

Dr Alexandra Gaillard

Cannabis is one of the most used substances of abuse. As cannabis regulation is currently changing in many countries, it is becoming increasingly important to understand if and how long-term cannabis use impacts the brain and cognition. The effects of 14 cannabinoid intoxication have been attributed to the influence of cannabinoids on the brain. Indeed, when cannabis is consumed, THC binds to brain cannabinoid receptors that are densely innervated in selected cortical regions. Emerging functional neuroimaging (fMRI) evidence show that cannabis users vs controls showed altered brain function while resting (i.e., without performing cognitively demanding tasks), measured via resting- state functional connectivity (rsFC). This project will investigate differences in resting-state functional connectivity between cannabis users versus controls, and whether any changes are associated with cannabis dependence level and exposure parameters (i.e., age of first cannabis use, duration of cannabis use). This project is a part of a larger MRI study that is currently in active recruitment and testing. Students will be involved primarily with finalising data collection at the Swinburne Neuroimaging Facility and the MRI analysis process. 

Good Clinical Practice Certification (ICH-GCP)

MRI data acquisition

MRI data preprocessing

Resting-state functional connectivity data analyses

Dr Alexandra Gaillard

Cannabis is one of the most used substances of abuse. As cannabis regulation is currently changing in many countries, it is becoming increasingly important to understand if and how long-term cannabis use impacts the brain and cognition. The effects of cannabinoid intoxication have been attributed to the influence of cannabinoids on the brain. Indeed, when cannabis is consumed, THC binds to brain cannabinoid receptors that are densely innervated in selected cortical regions. Maladaptive reward processing has been linked to making effective decisions and directing actions, with studies on neurocognition indicating that cannabis users demonstrate impairments in motivated decision-making compared to controls. Recent literature has eluded to a neurofunctional link has been demonstrated between the cerebellum and reward processing pathways. This project aims to build upon the knowledge on the neurocircuitry of reward and loss processing and association to motivated decision-making, by applying transcranial direct current stimulation to the cerebellum. This project is a part of a larger randomized, controlled study on adult participants with and without moderate to severe cannabis use disorder (CUD). Students will be involved with recruitment of participants, data collection, administering non-invasive brain stimulation, and clinical interviews related to substance use disorders. 

Good Clinical Practice Certification (ICH-GCP)

Recruitment of vulnerable populations

Administration of clinical interviews (Schedule Clinical Interview Diagnostic – Cannabis Use Disorder; Timeline Follow Back)

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) administration

Data analyses involving cognitive task performance changes

Dr Junhua Xiao

This project aims to test a novel nerve repair strategy to combat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) via modulating lipid metabolism in the brain. MS is a devastating disease that the body’s own immune system appears to attack the nervous system, leading to paralysis. It is the most common cause of neurological disability among young Caucasian, with the peak of onset in mid 30s. When the disease first appears, there is often a period of recovery before it worsens again. However, the ability of the nervous system to repair the disease seems to slowly disappear so each returning bout is worse. No treatments offer a cure for the disease and current therapies for MS suppress the immune system but do not enhance nerve repair. The brain is a lipid-rich organ. However, the metabolism of key lipids is disrupted in the human MS brain, inducing neural degeneration. Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid essential to normal brain function. However, it is markedly reduced in MS lesions due to disturbed metabolism. Here we will determine whether the protective lipid S1P can be effectively restored in the injured brain for promoting nerve repair. The outcome of this study will establish, proof-of-principle, that modulating brain lipid metabolism is a novel strategy that could promote nerve repair in MS. We use a variety of molecular, cellular, biochemical and advanced imaging techniques plus functional analyses to investigate these events. This project will investigate: 1. If altering S1P metabolism, via genetic ablation, impedes normal myelin formation in the brain 2. If restoring S1P lipid in the brain can promote nerve repair after myelin injury in the brain using an animal model of MS. (*This is a large program hence the honours student will undertake only some component parts of the project)

Molecular and cellular neurobiology

Neurohistopathology

Biochemical analysis

Advancing microscope imaging

Biostatistical analysis 

Professor Andrew Pipingas

Opportunities for research investigating relationships between diet/exercise, brain function and cardiovascular function in a group of older independently living individuals. The data source is a recently completed clinical trial – the MedWalk trial (see reference 1) with participants living in retirement villages as well as the general community. The primary aim of MedWalk was to investigate the effects of Mediterranean diet and walking intervention on cognitive decline and dementia risk in a group of independently living older Australians. MedWalk secondary aims will investigate effects on mood and quality of life, sleep, hearing cardiovascular function and arterial stiffness, and biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, including glucose regulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient status. Additionally, there is a smaller subgroup tested with MRI.

Performing a comprehensive review of the relevant literature

Quantitative statistical analysis of an existing data set

Opportunities to support development of the research manuscript through to publication

Associate Professor David White

Mismatch negativity (MMN) is a well-characterized brain response that occurs when a stimulus deviates from a predicted pattern. It has been extensively studied using EEG and MEG, techniques that offer high temporal resolution, as well as fMRI, which provides detailed spatial information. This project will integrate simultaneous EEG-MEG and EEG-fMRI data obtained at on the same day from the Swinburne neuroimaging facility to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying MMN. The combined use of these three techniques will allow for the precise localization and timing of neural activity, providing insights that may be particularly relevant for understanding cognitive dysfunctions associated with clinical populations where MMN has been shown to be impacted, such as schizophrenia. The student(s) will be responsible for assisting with data collection, gaining training and hands-on experience with advanced neuroimaging techniques, and exposure to processing and analyzing data collected from healthy participants using these multimodal techniques.

The project will develop skills with EEG, MEG and MRI

Neuroimaging data analysis involves leveraging high-performance computing, programming languages such as python, and advanced statistical methods, in addition to signal processing skills 

Associate Professor David White

Cognitive aging is a highly variable process, with some individuals maintaining cognitive health while others progress toward mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) offers a unique window into the neural changes associated with aging by providing sensitive measures of brain oscillations and connectivity. This project will leverage features extracted from large open MEG datasets, such as Cam-CAN and BioFINDER, to analyze MEG data collected from older adults at Swinburne University. These datasets cover a continuum from healthy aging through subjective cognitive decline (SCD) to mild cognitive impairment, providing an opportunity to explore the neural markers that may predict different aging trajectories. The student will analyze and compare MEG data across these groups, focusing on key features like oscillatory power, connectivity patterns, and functional networks. They will work with cutting-edge machine learning techniques to assess the predictive value of these features for distinguishing between cognitive aging outcomes. This project will offer the student valuable experience in neuroimaging analysis, data- driven feature extraction, and computational modeling. It also holds the potential for significant contributions to understanding the early neural changes associated with cognitive decline.

The project will develop skills with MEG and MRI. 17

Neuroimaging data analysis involves leveraging high-performance computing, programming languages such as python, and advanced statistical methods, in addition to signal processing skills

Associate Professor David White

Breathing is a natural and essential function for human survival. Slow breathing has been historically known to induce numerous health benefits including reducing stress and anxiety and promoting wellness and overall mental health. Acute slow breathing may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular regulation by affecting hemodynamics and the autonomic nervous system. The primary proposed mechanistic path for slow breathing has been an improved vagal tone, or parasympathetic expression, associated with improved cardiac baroreflex function. Powerful within-breath respiratory modulation of sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity has been well documented in humans. During spontaneous breathing, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) is inhibited during mid-inspiration to mid-expiration, with MSNA activation occurring during late expiration.

Published results in humans have confirmed that slow breathing may change the cognitive functions of learning and memory. In addition, the brain areas that are modulated by slow breathing has been shown to control cognitive functions. Animal studies illustrated that respiration-locked olfactory bulb neuronal excitation caused the respiration-locked delta oscillations and gamma power modulations in the somatosensory cortex. In summary, slow breathing has been shown to affect the autonomic output and cortical activity. However, the relationship between cortical activity and autonomic output during slow breathing are not completely understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the link between cortical activity and autonomic output during slow breathing in healthy participants. We will use encephalography (EEG) data to record cortical activity, and MSNA, blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) data to record autonomic output data.

EEG data collection and analysis

Autonomic output data collection and analysis

Analytical skills

Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams

Associate Professor Stephen McKeever

Delivering care in a critical care environment can present unique challenges. These challenges can include complexity of patient conditions, advanced treatment modalities, specialised equipment, and frequent encounters with disability and death. Intense emotional needs of patients and their families can add further complexity to care provision (Christensen & Liang, 2023). A frequently encountered challenge for critical care nurses is delivering bad news to patients and their families. This challenge can have significant emotional and psychological 18 impacts on nurses, potentially affecting their well-being, job satisfaction, and professional performance (Alkhawaldeh et al., 2018). Understanding these impacts, and identifying effective coping mechanisms, are essential for supporting critical care nurses in their roles.

There is a notable lack of studies that explore nurses' experiences of delivering bad news, particularly in relation to their well-being. This gap is especially pronounced in the intensive care setting, where the unique challenges of the environment may exacerbate the emotional burden of delivering bad news. In addition, little is known about impact of breaking bad news for nurses working within Australian critical care units. Given the high involvement of critical care nurses in delivering bad news and its potential impact on their well- being, there is a pressing need for research that specifically explores the experiences of this group. By focusing on this specific cohort, the study seeks to uncover discipline-specific and critical care-specific issues related to delivering bad news. This has a goal of developing tailored guidance for best practices and supporting the well-being of these essential healthcare providers. This research will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on staff well-being in healthcare settings, with a particular emphasis on the under- explored area of breaking bad news in critical care environments.

Aim: To investigate Australian critical care nurses psychological and emotional impact of delivering bad news, through examining how this impacts well-being, job satisfaction, and identify coping mechanisms that enhance nurses' ability to manage challenging communication. This quantitative study will use a cross-sectional survey design to explore psychological and emotional impacts on Australian critical care nurses who are involved in delivering bad news. The survey will be administered to members of the Australian College of Critical Care Nurses (ACCCN) and critical care nurses working in hospitals via emails, ACCCN and social media platforms will be used to reach a broad sample of the target population.

Survey development

Survey data collection

Survey analysis

Report / article writing

Associate Professor Stephen McKeever

Metal waste in healthcare settings includes items such as surgical instruments, medical devices, and other metallic materials used in patient care (Fazzo et al., 2017; Windfeld & Brooks, 2015). By implementing a comprehensive tracking system, the project will monitor types and quantities of metal waste generated, as well as the current disposal methods. This data will provide a baseline for evaluating existing waste management practice effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. This project involves analysing environmental impact of metal waste disposal. By investigating current disposal practices, this project aims to develop more sustainable methods that minimise environmental damage. This includes exploring recycling options and potential for reprocessing certain types of metal waste. In addition to environmental benefits, the project seeks to identify potential hospital cost implications. By tracking and analysing the financial aspects of metal waste disposal, this project will provide insights into economic impact of sustainable practices. This information will be crucial for hospital administrators and policymakers when making decisions about waste management strategies. Overall, project aims to create a model for sustainable metal waste management that can be replicated in other healthcare facilities.

Aim: To systematically track and investigate metal waste disposal within a Victorian hospital to 19 reduce environmental impact, improve sustainability practices, and identify potential cost implications.

Data collection

Environmental Impact Assessment

Project Management

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Report / article writing

Dr Jutharat Attawet

This project aims to evaluate and optimise Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practices within aged care facilities to minimise waste and enhance sustainability. By conducting a comprehensive waste audit and mapping existing IPC workflows, the project identifies high-waste areas and inefficiencies, such as the overuse of single-use items (gloves, gowns, masks), improper waste segregation, and limited recycling efforts. The project will employ a root cause analysis methodology to uncover the underlying drivers of waste generation. The findings will inform targeted interventions to reduce unnecessary items, single-use items, improve waste segregation, and introduce reusable alternatives without compromising infection control standards. The project is designed to help and guide aged care and healthcare facilities to achieve zero- waste IPC practices, fostering both environmental sustainability and cost efficiency.

Waste management and auditing

Process mapping

Root cause analysis

Data analysis and interpretation

Dr Jutharat Attawet

The project aims to explore and evaluate the impact of intended parent involvement in surrogacy birth care, spanning from antenatal care to delivery and postnatal care. Surrogacy is a growing practice in Australia, but the guidelines surrounding the involvement of intended parents during the birth process are inconsistent and lack empirical evidence. Additionally, there is no national standard framework or guidance for healthcare professionals on surrogacy birth care, and most Australian hospitals do not have specific policies in place. This research seeks to fill this gap by providing research-based evidence to guide healthcare professionals and improve surrogacy birth care practices.

Retrospective and prospective research design

Quantitative and qualitative analysis

Evidence-based practice guideline

Policy improvement

Dr Caroline Tuck

Chronic pain, an ‘invisible illness’, affects >3.6 million Australians and is the leading cause of disability in our country, costing $144.10 billion per year (Chronic Pain Australia). Chronic pain incorporates a range of conditions including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain (Cohen et al., 2021). These conditions present a complex web of multifaceted, overlapping and poorly understood pathophysiology. Management strategies include diverse treatments, from pharmacotherapy to lifestyle modifications, that often have limited effectiveness (Vincent et al., 2021). Recent high-quality dietary trials in IBS have shown efficacy for dietary therapy for pain management, superior to pharmacotherapy and preferred by patients. However, this dietary focus is lacking in other chronic pain conditions. While potential positive benefits of various dietary interventions on pain have been reported across a range of chronic pain conditions, studies are limited by significant heterogeneity and low-quality designs. Additionally, meta- analyses support positive effects of diet on chronic pain, but mechanisms of action are unclear (Brain et al., 2019). Improved diet quality, increased access to healthcare, or improved dietary knowledge may contribute to effects of diet therapy on chronic pain, which has not been explored (Brain et al., 2019). Therefore, this study aims to 1) understand the nutrition knowledge and needs of patients with chronic pain, and 2) better define what the dietary habits are of people living with chronic pain. 

Part 1: This qualitative interview study will explore the nutrition knowledge and needs of patients living with chronic pain. The study will conduct one-on-one interviews with ~15-20 patients until data saturation is reached, at which point further data collection would yield similar results. Transcripts will be analysed using a 6-step thematic analysis and mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework to evaluate barriers and enablers to symptom management.

Part 2: This study will be an Australia-wide survey of individuals with chronic pain, to measure dietary intake via food frequency questionnaire, dietary knowledge, and diet quality. Dietary intake data will be analysed for consumption of food constituents known to trigger symptoms across chronic pain conditions

Students with a nutrition major are encouraged to apply. Depending on the interests of the student(s) involved, either one or both of the outlined projects may be conducted during the Honours year

Analytical skills

Critical thinking

Qualitative research skills

Mixed-method research skills

Dr Margaret Murray

Currently, in Australia, dietary patterns are one of the key factors that contribute to morbidity and mortality (Islam et al., 2019). The Australian Dietary Guidelines and 21 Australian Guide to Healthy Eating are Australia’s national guidelines to support the promotion of health-promoting dietary habits. However, these have not been effective for influencing population dietary habits, with less than 4% of the population eating in a way that aligns with the national guidelines (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2016). With the launch of the new Australian Dietary Guidelines due in 2026 (Wesselingh, 2024), this study seeks to understand Australians’ awareness and perceptions of the current guidelines to help inform the implementation of the new guidelines. Shifting Australia’s eating habits towards the recommendations in the national guidelines would improve human health outcomes, as well as contribute to reducing the planetary impact of our dietary habits (Hendrie et al., 2022). We acknowledge that there are many factors that influence the dietary habits of individuals and populations, and that national dietary guidelines are one small aspect of this. By improving our understanding of how Australian’s perceive the national dietary guidelines, this can better inform the implementation of the updated guidelines to enhance the impact of these on population dietary habits and overall health. During this project, the student will undertake a systematic literature review to explore the existing evidence relating to consumer awareness and perceptions of dietary guidelines, then conduct an online survey to collect data from at least 300 participants to answer the question of Australians’ awareness and perceptions of the Australian Dietary Guidelines and Australian Guide to Healthy Eating. This project may involve either quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods data analysis. 

Students with a Major in Nutrition are encouraged to apply. 

Performing a systematic literature review

Survey writing

Participant recruitment & advertising

Data management

Quantitative (statistical) and/or qualitative analysis

Dr Margaret Murray

Rates of depression and anxiety disorders are increasing, with each currently affecting around 4% of the global population (about 300 million people) and many people experiencing the two simultaneously (Friedrich, 2017; Javaid et al., 2023). There has been a recent surge in research considering the relationship between food and mood disorders, with food being investigated as a potential contributor or treatment and management strategy through mechanisms such as influencing the gut-brain axis (Ekinci & Sanlier, 2023; Firth et al., 2020; GibsonSmith et al., 2020; Grajek et al., 2022). One food group that has been associated with lower depressive symptoms, is a high intake of fruit (Ekinci & Sanlier, 2023; Gibson-Smith et al., 2020). This may be due to the antioxidant and radical-scavenging abilities of vitamin C, and the role of vitamin C as an essential cofactor in reactions to synthesise neurotransmitters associated with mood (Billows et al., 2022). Other proposed mechanisms through which fruit intake may influence mood are impacts on glycaemia, immune activation, and the gut microbiome (Firth et al., 2020), through the presence of polyphenols (Coe & Ryan, 2016; Mehdi et al., 2023; Serra et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2023). 

This project will investigate the relationship between dietary intake of fruit/vitamin C and mood outcomes (including depression and anxiety) in a population of independently living 60-90-yearold participants from the MedWalk randomised controlled trial (Pipingas et al., 2023). During this 22 project, the student will undertake a systematic literature review to explore the existing evidence relating to fruit/vitamin C intake and mood outcomes, then conduct computer-based data analysis to explore this relationship in the MedWalk population. This project will involve quantitative analysis of data that has previously been collected and will not involve running a trial. 

Students with a Major in Nutrition are encouraged to apply. 

Performing a systematic literature review

Data management

Quantitative (statistical) analysis

Critical analysis and interpretation

Carrie Wong

Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs) are developed to inform populations on food and nutrition intake to support health and wellbeing as well as prevent disease. They often contain information on food quantities and consider regional and cultural contexts of food intake. National and local nutrition policies are informed by these guidelines, therefore FBDGs form critical pillars for population nutrition (Herforth et al, 2019). Whilst FBDGs have mostly been developed based on available scientific research, the applicability of recommendations has been questioned, both in relation to ability for different populations to adhere to them, as well as the way by which key messages are disseminated (Leme et al, 2019; Yoong et al, 2023). There are also increasing concerns over messages of weight stigma and bias that are intentionally or unintentionally communicated through different discourse and policy, and the negative effects these pose to health and mental health in individuals (Hann et al, 2017; Rubino et al, 2020). To date, little is known about the way in which weight is portrayed in global FBDGs. The aim of this research project is to examine the key messages in global FBDGs specifically in relation to weight and weight bias. Country-based FBDGs available in the public domain and in English will be identified through the FAO website and shortlisted for analysis (at present the FAO website lists 102 countries with FBDGs). Students will identify how messages about weight is conveyed both through text and visually (where applicable) using qualitative analytical techniques to code and analyse data for key themes. It is anticipated that the findings from this project will reveal new insights about weight messaging in FBDGs, and the implications these may have on weight stigma and bias. The work will be published as a manuscript in a peer reviewed journal.

Students with a nutrition and/or public health background are encouraged to apply. 

Analytical skills

Critical thinking

Qualitative research skills 

Dr Sarah Barandell

Learning about the human body is a fundamental part of education for many 23 health professionals. For some professions, learning about the body involves detailed anatomy curriculum in preparation for development of further knowledge and skills related to diagnosis, assessment, intervention and risk management. Traditionally anatomy curriculum has thus focused on information about the structure – and perhaps the function – of different body parts. However, this is somewhat at odds with more humanistic perspectives of the body – for example, safety, dignity, identity, embodiment, connection – which are increasingly recognized as important. This has implications for health professional education, practice and research. This project will use an evidence synthesis approach (scoping review or qualitative synthesis) to explore the existing literature related to anatomy education in the health professions (or a particular discipline such as physiotherapy). Scoping reviews explore the breadth of literature on a specific topic and tend to provide an overview of the quantity of available literature whereas qualitative syntheses focus on qualitative primary research to derive new meaning about a body of work. The exact approach will be decided collaboratively with the Honours student. The review will follow recognized procedural and reporting recommendations (i.e. Bearman and Dawson, 2013; Levac et al., 2010; Major and Savin Baden, 2010; Noblit and Hare, 1988; Peters et al., 2015; Peters et al., 2020; Pollock et al., 2021). The aim is a publication in a peer reviewed journal article and to inform future research opportunities. 

Systematic literature searching

Evidence synthesis

Report writing

Writing for publication 

Dr L.E. (Eduardo) Cofré Lizama

Identifying scapular dyskinesia, an abnormal movement pattern of the scapula, is important as it can contribute to shoulder pain and dysfunction, affecting overall upper limb performance and increasing the risk of shoulder injuries. To date, no objective assessments exist for this problem and diagnosis is based on static and dichotomic classification based on observations. This is an exploratory study aimed at using IMUs to explore novel metrics to classify scapular dyskinesia. Participants with and without scapular dyskinesis will be instrumented with 7 IMUs placed on the forehead, sternum, and sacrum and bilateral acromioclavicular joint and upper arm. Each participant will perform 5 bilateral abductions, flexions, and scaptions with and without 2 kg on their hands and at 2 speeds, 0.5 Hz and 0.25 Hz. A 1-minute rest will be provided in between trials. In total each participant will perform 12 trials in ~20 minutes including resting time. Acceleration, angular velocity, and orientation will be recorded using APDM sensors and MoveoLab software (APDM Inc.) at 128 Hz. Angular dyskinesis will be assessed by 2 musculoskeletal specialist physiotherapists using the “yes/no” method. Coordination between timeseries from the acromioclavicular joint and upper arm sensors will be explorer using cross correlation, coherence, phase-shift, gain, continuous relative phase (CRP), cyclograms’ area, recurrence quantification analysis (RQA), Lyapunov exponent (LyE), and multiscale sample entropy (MSE). A ROC-AUC analysis will be used to determine the ability of the IMU-derived metrics to correctly classify patients with scapular dyskinesis.

Use of wearables in rehabilitation coding using e.g., MATLAB 24

Understanding of motor coordination

Understanding of non-linear behavior and its applications in rehabilitation

Dr L.E. (Eduardo) Cofré Lizama

Assessing sitting balance in spinal cord injury patients is essential for determining their trunk control and stability, which is a crucial step for progression to safe transfers, standing and walking. Current clinical tools have shown limitations regarding sensitivity and specificity, have substantial ceiling effects and observer bias, which limits their application for monitoring progression and tailoring interventions. In this study we aim to develop a test to assess sitting balance control utilising non-linear measures of motor behaviour including DFA, LyE, RQA, and MSE as well as standard postural metrics (i.e., sway area) based on wearable sensors’ data (e.g., accelerations). Participants will perform 2 sitting still trials with arms cross on their chest, one with eyes open and one with eyes closed, each of 1 minute. Participants will also be asked to lean as far as they can in each, forward, backward, left, and right directions for 10 consecutive times at 0.5 Hz and 0.25 Hz and perform 2 trials of 5 circular movements (counter and clockwise) at their own pace. All trials will be conducted under 2 sitting conditions, with feet on and off the ground. A 1-minute rest will be allowed in between trials. In total each subject will perform 35 trials ranging from 40 seconds to 1 minute each (~21 minutes in total). A repeated measures ANOVA will be conducted to determine the effects of speed and feet positioning on each non-linear metric of motor behaviour. 

Use of wearables in rehabilitation coding using e.g., MATLAB 24

Understanding of motor coordination

Understanding of non-linear behavior and its applications in rehabilitation

Dr L.E. (Eduardo) Cofré Lizama

The assessment of functional ankle stability is crucial for identifying deficits in balance, proprioception, and muscle strength, which are key factors in preventing recurrent injuries and rehabilitation. Accurate assessment helps guide effective preventive and rehabilitation strategies to restore ankle’s ability to deal with unexpected perturbations in dailylife and sports and reduce the risk of long-term complications. The aim of this study is to explore the long-term effects of ankle sprains on lower limb and whole-body stability using IMUs (wearables) to obtain non-linear measures of stability and variability; LyE and MSE. A secondary aim to determine the validity of the non-linear measures obtained with the IMUs in comparison with the CoP derived measures. A group of participants with history (>6 months) of ankle sprain(s) (Sprain Group) and a group of healthy controls (HC) will perform bipedal standing trials under a combination of eyes open or closed and on firm or compliance surface (4 trials) each of 40 seconds. Same sensory conditions will be used to assess balance during single leg standing on both legs (8 trials). Finally, participants will perform one trial with each leg on the star excursion balance test (SEBT; 2 trials). MANOVA test will be used to compare non-linear metrics between the 2 groups (Sprain and HC) whereas ICC, multiple correlations, and Bland-Altman plots will be used to determine the validity of IMU and CoP derived measures.

Use of wearables in rehabilitation coding using e.g., MATLAB 24

Understanding of motor coordination

Understanding of non-linear behavior and its applications in rehabilitation

Dr L.E. (Eduardo) Cofré Lizama

The assessment of movement using biomechanics can provide deep insights into changes in motor control due to musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, as well as aging. However, understanding and communicating these motor alterations to patients for education and feedback is a complex task, as several interdependent, time-dependent variables are involved. This exploratory study aims to collect electromyography (EMG), kinematic, and wearable sensor data during walking at different speeds and translate these biosignals into audio feedback. Healthy young participants will walk on a treadmill at fixed speeds of 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 m/s² for 3 minutes each. Bilateral EMG recordings from the medial and lateral gastrocnemius, soleus, tibialis anterior, biceps femoris, rectus femoris, vasti, and gluteus maximus and medius, along with fullbody kinematics using 3D motion capture and a set of 12 wearable sensors, will be used to collect motion data. Data will be processed and analyzed using MATLAB and translated into audio signals utilizing the audio toolbox. Customized audio compositions will be developed for each individual, using different combinations of biosignals as distinct “instruments.” This is the first step towards developing novel motion feedback for patient education and training.

Use of wearables in rehabilitation coding using e.g., MATLAB

Understanding biosignals translation

Understanding the link between science and arts 

Dr Jessica Laraine Williams

Work integrated learning (WIL) and clinical placements are essential for meeting professional accreditation standards and ensuring health graduates’ clinical competency. Emerging technological innovations can improve the learner experience in health training. Wearable smart glasses enhance learner experiences by offering remote first-person perspectives, improving concentration, supporting interview practice, and providing feedback on non-verbal communication. However, the benefits of using smart glasses for healthcare WIL placements are not well established, and there is little guidance on addressing potential ethical issues, especially considering emerging smart glass functions such as augmented reality, AI integration and biometrics. The interdisciplinary pilot project SIGHT (Smart glass Integration for Guiding Health Training): ethical use in WIL placement supervision and education has received funding in the School of Health Sciences grant round 2, 2024. It brings together researchers and specialists in health simulation training, extended reality, design and physiotherapy.

Phase 1 (February 2025) involves a co-design workshop that aims to: 1. Explore learner, educator, and industry stakeholder perspectives on the ethical use of smart glasses in WIL settings. 2. Co-create two physiotherapy WIL training simulations using Vuzix Blade 2.0 smart glasses.

These simulations will then be piloted at St Vincent’s Hospital in WIL block 1 2025 over two days to evaluate learner experiences of remote audiovisual supervision and feedback recordings via smart glasses. Honours students are invited to consider the ethical challenges, opportunities and implications for smart glass integration into placement training through preliminary literature review and in contributing to the facilitation, data collection and reporting of stakeholder perspectives gathered during the co-design workshop.

The primary aim of the Honours project is to establish recommendations for designing training experiences, targeted at clinical and academic educators. This will enable opportunities to build fundamental research skills and establish a publication track record.

By assisting in co-design workshop planning and data collection, students can enhance their organizational and project management skills.

Conducting thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of collected data supports analytical and technical abilities.

Participating in reporting and publication helps students improve their writing, editing and critical thinking skills, preparing them for future academic and professional endeavours.

Working collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team skills will support high level communication styles and feedback literacy.

Students will engage with a project focused on improving health training programs through cutting-edge technologies, giving them a marketable edge in digital health knowledge.