The Translational Health Research Institute at Western Sydney University is offering a competitive PhD scholarship focused on exploring digital intimacy, sexual health, and online relationship engagement among LGBTQA+ people with intellectual disability. The project is led by Associate Professor Rosalie Power and forms part of a broader research program examining sexual health through participatory and inclusive approaches. This research initiative addresses an emerging and under-examined area of public health: how disabled LGBTQA+ individuals interact with digital platforms for identity expression, community building, sexual health information, and relationship development. It aims to generate evidence that supports more inclusive digital environments and improves access to safe, affirming online spaces. Research Focus: Digital Intimacy, Disability, and Inclusion The PhD project investigates how LGBTQA+ people with intellectual disability experience digital environments such as: Online dating platforms Social media networks Sexual health information websites Community-based digital spaces While digital platforms have become essential for communication and connection, many people with intellectual disability face barriers that limit meaningful participation. These barriers may include inaccessible design, exclusionary content, lack of tailored information, and exposure to stigma or discrimination. Grounded in disability justice and sexual rights frameworks, the research will examine both the risks and opportunities associated with digital engagement. It will explore how individuals navigate intimacy, relationships, identity, and sexual health in online spaces while facing structural inequalities. Research Approach and Methodology The project adopts participatory and arts-based research methods, ensuring that knowledge is co-produced with community members rather than generated solely by academic researchers. Key methods include: Co-design workshops with LGBTQA+ people with intellectual disability Photo-elicitation interviews Object-based storytelling and qualitative engagement Collaborative knowledge production with community stakeholders This approach prioritizes lived experience and ensures that research outcomes are grounded in real-world perspectives. The study is part of a larger program titled Transforming Sexual Health through Co-design with LGBTQA+ People with Intellectual Disability, which brings together academic researchers, service providers, and community organisations working across disability and LGBTQA+ health sectors. Expected Outcomes and Impact The research aims to produce both academic and practical outcomes that contribute to equity and inclusion in digital health spaces. Key expected outputs include: Inclusive digital health resources tailored to LGBTQA+ people with intellectual disability Practical guidelines for improving accessibility in online platforms Evidence-based strategies for supporting digital sexual health engagement Academic publications contributing to disability and sexual health scholarship Policy-relevant insights for service providers and digital platform designers The project seeks to strengthen digital inclusion by addressing systemic barriers and promoting autonomy, agency, and safe participation in online environments. Scholarship Benefits and Funding Support The PhD scholarship provides financial and professional support for eligible domestic candidates. Financial Support Tax-free stipend of AUD $35,188 per annum Funding available for up to 3 years Tuition support through the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset Additional Support Funding for conference attendance Support for fieldwork and research-related costs (subject to approval) Opportunities for applied research placements Professional Development and Placement Opportunities A key feature of the scholarship is the potential placement with Inclusive Rainbow Voices, the first LGBTIQA+ Disabled People’s Organisation in Australia. This placement offers candidates the opportunity to: Develop advocacy and stakeholder engagement skills Work directly with disability and LGBTQA+ communities Build professional networks across health, disability, and human rights sectors Gain applied experience in inclusive policy and community engagement This practical component strengthens the link between academic research and real-world impact. Eligibility Criteria The scholarship is open to highly motivated applicants with academic and professional backgrounds aligned with public health, disability studies, social sciences, or related disciplines. Applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements: First Class Bachelor’s Honours degree (Australia) or equivalent Coursework Master’s degree with at least 25% research component Research Master’s degree Equivalent overseas qualification Additional selection criteria include: Strong academic performance in relevant disciplines Understanding of intersectionality and the social model of disability Commitment to disability justice and sexual rights Willingness to engage in qualitative and arts-based research methods Motivation to undertake advanced research training The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong interest in working collaboratively with marginalised communities and contributing to equity-focused research. Research Significance and Social Impact This scholarship reflects growing recognition of the importance of digital inclusion in sexual health and disability studies. As online platforms increasingly shape how people form relationships, access health information, and engage with communities, ensuring accessibility and safety for marginalised groups has become a critical research priority. The project highlights the intersection of disability rights, LGBTQA+ inclusion, and digital transformation, focusing on how structural inequalities affect lived experiences in online environments. By centering the voices of LGBTQA+ people with intellectual disability, the research contributes to a more inclusive understanding of intimacy, autonomy, and digital participation. Application Deadline Applications for the PhD scholarship close on 30 June 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of the program. This opportunity represents a significant step forward in advancing inclusive health research and strengthening academic work at the intersection of disability, sexuality, and digital technology. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.