Development of Rehabilitation Interventions for acute Spinal Cord Injury (Development of ReISCI)

Oxford Brookes University

Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

Oxford Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Research

3 Year, full-time PhD studentship

Project Title: Development of Rehabilitation Interventions for acute Spinal Cord Injury (Development of ReISCI)

Director of Studies: Dr Mark Williams

Other Supervisors: Dr Annabel Williams

Project Description

In the UK, approximately 2,500 people sustain a spinal cord injury (SCI) every year because of trauma or disease. This injury leads to profound impairment and/or paralysis to sensory, motor and autonomic functions, which in turn are associated with significantly reduced physical and psychological functions, wellbeing and ultimately participation in daily life. Rehabilitation strategies during the acute phase of an SCI typically focus on maximising function, preventing respiratory complications through airway clearance, promoting neuro-recovery, and establishing optimal conditions for long-term maintenance of health and function

Currently there is a paucity of robust studies of 1) current practice, 2) patient, carer and clinician experience of care and 3) effectiveness of enhanced multimodal rehabilitation interventions in the acute care period.  

This studentship aims to build a foundation of understanding of current evidence and practice in order to map a clear path for investigation into what is the best acute rehabilitation care for patients with stable SCI. This will include systematic review, survey, interview and consensus building methodologies. The student will be based within the Trauma Rehabilitation and Musculoskeletal Health (TRaMH) research group.

There is an additional requirement to undertake up to 6 hours undergraduate teaching/week during semesters and to participate in a teaching skills course without further remuneration.

For informal inquiries about the project and the application process please contact Dr Mark Williams.

Contact: [Email Address Removed] 

Requirements:

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class honours degree from a Higher Education Institution in the UK or acceptable equivalent qualification. EU Applicants must have a valid IELTS Academic test certificate (or equivalent) with an overall minimum score of 7.0 and no score below 6.0 issued in the last 2 years by an approved test centre. 

Completion of a DBS check is required on enrolment. The cost of this will be covered by the University.

How to apply: Applicants should email [Email Address Removed] to request an application form.