Ayalew Negash Shiferaw, a PhD student at the University of New England, is researching work-related musculoskeletal disorders among public sector employees, supported by an RTP Domestic Stipend Scholarship.
Negash, who previously taught biomedical science at the University of Gondar in Ethiopia, holds degrees in veterinary medicine, public health from Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and vaccinology from Pan African University Nigeria. His current research examines musculoskeletal disorders affecting office workers, healthcare professionals, and teachers.
"Public sector employees represent a significant portion of the workforce, yet occupational health research has predominantly focused on industrial and agricultural workers," Negash said. "Comprehensive studies assessing the epidemiology, risk factors, and psychosocial impact of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in this population are lacking, especially in countries like Ethiopia."
Comprehensive studies assessing the epidemiology, risk factors, and psychosocial impact of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in this population are lacking, especially in countries like Ethiopia.
The research aims to provide evidence for policymakers, employers, and healthcare providers to develop targeted interventions for improving workplace health and productivity.
Negash chose UNE after searching for institutions that matched his research interests. "University of New England stood out due to its interdisciplinary approach and experienced researchers whose work aligns with my goals," he said. "UNE's emphasis on innovation, collaboration and global impact echoes with my aspirations to develop translational research that advances public health."
The RTP Domestic Stipend Scholarship has been essential to his research progress. "This scholarship has alleviated financial burdens, facilitated access to essential resources, and empowered me to achieve milestones that would otherwise be out of reach," Negash explained.
This scholarship has alleviated financial burdens, facilitated access to essential resources, and empowered me to achieve milestones that would otherwise be out of reach.
The funding enables him to subscribe to academic journals, attend conferences, conduct fieldwork and data collection, and publish findings in open-access journals. "Without this financial backing, crucial phases of my research would be delayed or compromised," he said.
For students considering higher degree research, Negash offers encouragement based on his experience with the scholarship application process. "Scholarships aren't just for pioneers or star athletes – they reward passion, dedication, and potential," he said. "Applicants should confidently highlight their achievements, whether in academics, volunteer work, part-time jobs, or personal projects."
Scholarships aren't just for pioneers or star athletes – they reward passion, dedication, and potential.
He acknowledges that rejection is part of the process but encourages persistence. "Rather than giving up, students should refine their applications and reapply in the future. Persistence pays off, and each submission builds valuable skills in writing and self-presentation."
Negash views the RTP scholarship as more than financial support. "It represented an investment in my future, one that I intend to honour by continuing to contribute meaningfully to my field," he said. "I am eager to contribute to UNE's research culture while learning from its diverse perspectives."
The Research Training Program Domestic Stipend Scholarship provides tax-free financial support to domestic students undertaking Higher Degree by Research at Australian universities. At UNE, the scholarship helps students focus on their research without financial pressure.
