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Haematological malignancies, commonly known as blood cancers, encompass a range of cancers affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. Leukemia, originating in the bone marrow, is often treated with a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Some patients may also require an allogeneic stem cell transplant. These intensive treatments can have widespread effects on patients, influencing their long-term survival and quality of life.

There is an urgent need to evaluate the effectiveness of supportive care strategies for blood cancer survivors to improve long term health outcomes. Lifestyle interventions that focus on adopting healthier behaviours could be important components of effective supportive care strategies but have not been widely investigated in this cohort of survivors. Exercise has been shown to beneficially impact cardiorespiratory fitness, but other adjunctive interventions may also be necessary to address the breadth of complications patients experience post-treatment to optimise patient survival outcomes.

This project would suit applicants with a background in exercise physiology, dietetics, and/or physiotherapy.

Eligibility criteria

• Applicants must meet Deakin’s PhD entry requirements, be enrolling full time and hold an Honours degree (First Class) or an equivalent standard Master’s degree with a substantial research component (including a Thesis component). Please refer to the entry pathways to higher degrees by research for further information.
• Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree with research component in the field of physical activity and chronic disease management.
• Fluency in verbal and written English (evidence of English proficiency is required), highly motivated and able to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• The opportunity is open to domestic and international students

Key dates and other information

• Start date: We are looking for a suitable candidate to start as soon as possible.
• Scholarship: We will work with suitably qualified applicants to apply for scholarship funding.

If this project is of interest, please contact Prof David Dunstan or A/Prof Erin Howden.