SHANG Jie: to integrate PhD study into career aspirations

SHANG Jie, research assistant undertaking Women and Child Health research at TGI China, is soon to take up a PhD course through The University of New South Wales (UNSW).  She has been awarded a UNSW International Postgraduate Award (UIPA) to avail her of enrolment fees, and the research topic relates to postpartum mental health.  Her postgraduate studies are all in line with her career aspirations of being a global health researcher focussed on population mental health and women’s health. Congratulations Jie!

Here are some of her thoughts and stories she would like to share with everyone:

What’s your background?

I completed both my Bachelor and Master’s degree studies at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Psychology and Epidemiology, respectively.

What is your current role?

From 2017, I have been working as a research assistant within the Women and Child Health research program at GI China. My other role is the regional program manager of the recently established Global Women’s Health Program (GWHP) under the leadership of Professor Robyn Nortong.

What are your hopes for The George in the next 5 years?

My PhD research topic is on postpartum mental health. I will continue to work closely with George colleagues to expand research and advocacy in women‘s health. My primary supervisor is Dr Amanda Henry, an experienced obstetrician and researcher in areas of high-risk pregnancy, and the relationship of pregnancy complications to later non-communicable diseases.  My associated supervisor is Professor Mark Woodward, a senior statistician/epidemiologist who is a leading expert in sex-aggregated analysis using Big Data. I am very much looking forward to next few years of more intensive studying and working with these esteemed experts.

What do you do to relax?

Going to movies and concerts.

Is there any detail that impressed you during the PhD application?

I applied as an overseas student through the normal process, and submitted all documents as required. Personally speaking, I think a strong Research Proposal and CV are particularly important compared with other materials.

Do you have any advice to share with those who want to continue their studies at the early career stage?

My only suggestions are to maintain good communication with supervisors,  and to relate education and work experiences to the proposed research topic.