The MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration (RSRC) was established in 2018 as a strategic partnership between the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) and the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) to undertake high level, applied research that positively impacts the lives and safety of Queensland's road users and community. Comprising of a team of over 20 research academics, HDR scholars and casual research officers, we are fast becoming the leading road safety research centre in Queensland producing world-class research outputs, with a focus on impaired driving.

Our research program occurs across five closely interlinked themes that map back to the priorities and objectives outlined in the Queensland Road Safety Strategy 2022-31 and ensures we are advancing positive road safety outcomes with a focus on addressing the problem of impaired driving from multiple perspectives. The PhD will require the applicant to develop an alcohol-impairment detection system based on machine learning / artificial intelligence techniques. The model will be developed on driving simulator data and tested in real time in the RSRC driving simulator.

As part of this project, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to learn and develop research skills and knowledge pertaining to systematic literature reviews, research design/methodology, project management, data analyses, and working with a driving simulator. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact A/Prof Gregoire Larue (glarue@usc.edu.au) for further information.

The MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration is seeking a PhD candidate for a fully funded project investigating the feasibility of continuously monitoring drivers to detect alcohol impairment using machine learning / artificial intelligence techniques. The successful applicant will be based at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Sippy Down campus and will receive an annual living stipend of $33 446.56 (indexed annually 01 January).

• An outstanding graduate with minimum IIA honours in computer /mathematical sciences or a related discipline, or the equivalent demonstrated via research experience/publications in a related discipline
• Enthusiastic and strong work ethic
• Interest in artificial intelligence, data science/analysis and road safety
• Ability to work effectively with others and independently
• Organised and strong attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills

Eligibility

• Be accepted into a Higher Degrees by Research program at the University of the Sunshine Coast
• Domestic Applicant
• Bachelor’s Degree with minimum IIA Honours or equivalent previous study, relevant work experience, research publications, or other research experience.
• Not have previously held a Commonwealth-funded postgraduate research scholarship unless it was terminated within six months of the current scholarship’s payments commencing.
• Satisfactory progress must be maintained throughout the PhD program.

Selection criteria

Criterion 1: Academic Achievement

Criterion 2: Research Capability

Eligible programs

PhD - Doctor of Philosophy

Number available

1

Value

1 - Stipend value of $33 446.56 p/a paid in fortnightly instalments. Payment is is for 3 years to align with thesis submission (possible extension in line with relevant policies and procedures)    

 

2 - Tuition offset scholarship for 3 years to cover cost of tuition fees, also aligned with thesis submission (possible extension in line with relevant policies and procedures) - approximate value of $87 000  

 

3 -  $2000 Allowance for relocation per scholarship conditions

Application

this will be a two-stage application process:

Stage 1 - Expression of Interest: Reference code UniSC_RS_2331_LARUE

A/Prof Gregoire Larue glarue@usc.edu.au +61 (07) 5456 5918

• Download and complete the USC Research Scholarship (USCRS) application form.
• Email your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the contact person and attach:
  • USCRS application form
  • Cover letter
  • Current CV
• The scholarship panel will review the EOI. If shortlisted, you will be invited for interview.
• The preferred applicant will be invited to formally apply for HDR program and Scholarship.

Stage 2 - Formal application (only if you have been invited to apply)

• Read the important information on How to Apply for a HDR Program at UniSC.
• Submit your UniSCRS application form as a supporting document when submitting your HDR Program application.

*scholarship offer is subject to applicant meeting the eligibility requirements for entry into a higher degree by research program at UniSC.