Deakin University Australia HDR PhD Scholarship 2025 in Anti-Doping Among Women
Deakin University is now inviting applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship under the High Degree by Research (HDR) program on the critical topic of anti-doping among women athletes. This unique opportunity is supported by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and focuses on the complex psycho-social and cultural factors influencing the use or avoidance of performance and image-enhancing drugs (PIEDs) among women.
Led by Associate Professor Matthew Dunn, the project offers an interdisciplinary and international research platform with collaborators from Australia, the UK, and Sweden.
Degree Level
Deakin University Australia HDR PhD Scholarship 2025 in Anti-Doping Among Women is available to undertake PhD level programs at Deakin University.
Available Subjects
Research Focus
There is growing global concern about the increased use of anabolic-androgenic steroids and other PIEDs among women. Research shows that support personnel—including coaches, trainers, and even partners—play a key role in either encouraging or deterring such use.
This qualitative PhD project, built through co-design with anti-doping and sports organizations, will:
- Investigate the role of support personnel in PIED use and prevention
- Explore the psycho-socio-cultural dynamics that influence female athletes’ decisions regarding doping
- Contribute to policy recommendations for anti-doping organizations worldwide
International Collaboration
This PhD is part of a multi-site project conducted in:
- Australia (Deakin University, Griffith University)
- Scotland (Heriot-Watt University)
- Sweden (Linnaeus University)
The research team includes renowned scholars:
- A/Prof Matthew Dunn (Deakin)
- A/Prof Severine Lamon (Deakin)
- Dr Jonathan Robertson (Deakin)
- Dr Timothy Piatkowski (Griffith)
- Dr April Henning (Heriot-Watt)
- Prof Jesper Andreasson (Linnaeus)
Benefits
- Stipend: $35,550 per annum (tax-free, 2025 rate) for 3 years
- Relocation allowance: $500–$1500 (for interstate applicants)
- Tuition fee offset (4 years) for international students
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international candidates
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be a domestic (Australian/New Zealand citizens or PR) or international applicant
- Meet Deakin’s PhD entry requirements, including:
A- First-class Honours degree OR
B- Master’s degree with significant research component
- Commit to full-time PhD enrollment
Application Procedure
To begin your application:
- Email your CV and cover letter to A/Prof Matthew Dunn
- CV should highlight academic qualifications, research experience, publications, and relevant skills
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a formal application through Deakin University
Final Thoughts
This is a rare and high-impact PhD opportunity for students passionate about sports science, gender studies, health sociology, and public policy. If you’re ready to explore the ethical, cultural, and psychological dimensions of doping among women in sports—apply now and contribute to global change in the fight against performance-enhancing drug use.
