Improving maternal sepsis care in low resource settings

Applications are invited for a 3-year fully-funded PhD Studentship starting as soon as possible.

This project offers the successful applicant the opportunity to contribute to maternal health research of international importance and impact. Maternal sepsis is a life-threatening condition defined as organ dysfunction resulting from infection during pregnancy or childbirth, and it is the third most common direct cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Our team is working with the World Health Organisation to develop a bundle of clinical interventions to improve recognition and management of maternal sepsis in low income settings. We are now conducting a feasibility study at 13 health facilities in Malawi, to optimise and evaluate the bundle as follows:

[1] A staff training and implementation programme
[2] Improved screening and identification of suspected sepsis (trigger tools)
[3] Immediate clinical management actions (FAST-M bundle)

The post holder will work with the project team to evaluate the feasibility of these activities, and to assist team preparations for a broader multi-country programme to reduce maternal sepsis.

Applicants will be based at the University of Birmingham, but the post will require periods of work at international study sites.

Person Specification
Applicants should have a strong background in maternal health research, with either a clinical background or experience of maternal health research in low resource settings. They should have a commitment to global women’s health research and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject.
Applicants will be required to travel to international research sites, in low income countries. Excellent communication skills will be important, and previous experience of working in low income countries would be highly desirable.
Applicants must be suited to work as part of our enthusiastic team and keen to engage with the practicalities of conducting appropriate but academically rigorous research in challenging settings.

How to apply
Informal enquiries should be directed to David Lissauer: ([Email Address Removed]).

Applications should be directed to Viktorija Ziabliceva ([Email Address Removed]). To apply, please send:
• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts; and
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.