Potential PhD opportunities
I am always keen to hear from potential PhD students, both those with and without funding. From time to time funded PhD studentships are available. Some suggested PhD programes of research are listed below. However, I would also be happy to hear from perspective students to work with me and other collaborators to develop a new funding proposal, either with access to their own funds, or to submit to a funding body. If any of these ideas interest you, do get in touch. We are working in a new research field, and there are lots of exciting opportunities. My work is in both statistics and general methodology of trials and evidence based medicine, so you don’t have to be a statistician to apply.
Examples of projects:
What is the best way to analyse the data from a SW-CRT? What are the implications of the generalised estimating equation approach and the random effects approach on bias and coverage? How do these modelling methods compare with within cluster comparisons and within step comparisons?
What is the risk of selection bias or baseline imbalance in a SW-CRT and how can this be mitigated? Does the stepped wedge design lessen the potential for baseline imbalance compared to the parallel design? Does pairing or stratification improve baseline imbalance?
Development of Stata add on functions for the design and analysis of stepped wedge studies
Past projects
What is the current quality of reporting of the SW-CRT? Do recently reported SW-CRTs confirm to the consort extension for parallel cluster trials? How are recent SW-CRTs powered and analysed (with specific emphasis on time effects and appropriate design effect); and do they report the design features such as the number and timing of steps?