PhD project investigating novel psychoactive substances in Australia (Toxicology)

New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), also commonly referred to as ‘designer drugs’ or ‘legal highs’ are substances that are designed to mimic the effects of existing drugs while avoiding legal restrictions. These substances are often created by modifying the chemical structure of existing drugs in order to produce similar psychoactive effects. The rapid emergence of a large number of NPS on the global drug market poses a significant risk to public health and a challenge to drug policy. Often, little is known about the adverse health effects and social harms of NPS, which pose a considerable challenge for prevention and treatment. The analysis and identification of a large number of chemically diverse substances present in drug markets at the same time is demanding on forensic laboratories. Monitoring, information sharing, early warning and risk awareness, are initiatives that are expanding rapidly around the world to respond to this situation. NPS have become a global phenomenon with 139 countries and territories from all regions of the world having reported one or more NPS. To December 2022, 1182 substances had been reported to the UNODC Early Warning Advisory (EWA) on NPS by Governments, laboratories and partner organisations. Governments and regulatory bodies around the world continually adapt to address the emergence of new psychoactive substances by updating laws and regulations to control or prohibit their production, sale, and use. Public health agencies also work to educate the public about the risks associated with these substances. This project seeks to understand the challenges associated with these drugs in Australia, with an investigation into prevalence and use, health risks and outcomes, legal and regulatory challenges, and other related issues. We are seeking a candidate with a First Class Honours degree or equivalent in a health-related field with an understanding of mixed methods and demonstrated research experience including literature reviews and analysis of primary or secondary data. Australian citizenship or permanent residency is required and candidates whose first language is not English should have a minimum IELTS score of 7 (with no band below 6.5). Applicants with a history of peer-reviewed published papers are preferred. Successful candidates will work under the supervision of leading international experts in the field of forensic science and medicine, based in the Department of Forensic Medicine. The successful student will have a background in medicine or health science in addition to excellent communication and organisational skills. This is an opportunity to conduct research in a world-class forensic medicine institute, in a friendly and highly interactive research environment of both staff and students. To apply, email your CV highlighting prior experience in research (e.g. publications) and a cover letter with a statement of interest and a copy of your academic transcript to Jennifer Schumann in the Department of Forensic Medicine at jennifer.schumann@monash.edu