Aston University partners with Deakin University on cross-global training in child health and neurodevelopment

Aston University and Deakin University (Australia) have announced a partnership to offer cross-global training for PhD students in the field of child health and neurodevelopment.

The Aston-Deakin Cotutelle Programme, led by Aston Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, represents a strong commitment to enhancing global connectedness between universities in research and education. It is hoped the partnership will drive innovation in child health and neurodevelopment research.

The programme is designed to develop a thriving PhD community and enhance research capacity in the field of child health and neurodevelopment. It will also facilitate the exchange of skills, knowledge, and experience between students at both universities, enabling them to make an even greater global impact and transform more lives.

Deakin University’s Faculty of Health is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach to health research and works collaboratively with partners and communities to develop evidence-based solutions that have a real-world impact across Australia and beyond. The partnership aligns with the shared vision and values of both Aston Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment and Deakin University’s Faculty of Health.

PhD students on the programme will be jointly enrolled at both universities and receive supervision from academic staff at each institution. Upon completion of the programme, graduates will receive a PhD or equivalent from each university.

Professor Jackie Blissett, co-director of Aston Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Deakin University in this exciting new venture. This partnership will enable us to provide our PhD students with a unique cross-global training experience, fostering a well-connected PhD community in child health and neurodevelopment research. By working collaboratively with Deakin University, we aim to drive innovation and create new solutions that will transform the lives of people around the world.”

Professor Gavin Woodhall, co-director of Aston Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Deakin University in this joint PhD programme, which reflects our shared commitment to global connectedness in research and education.

“Our partnership will provide our PhD students with invaluable opportunities to learn from and work alongside leading researchers in child health and neurodevelopment from across the world, ultimately driving innovation and improving health outcomes for children and families worldwide.”