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Choosing covariates in the analysis of cluster randomised trials. A graduate with experience and interest in medical statistics, is required for this project based at the Centre for Health Sciences, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London. Cluster randomised trials are increasingly popular. A gap in knowledge in relation to such trials is determining which covariates to include in the trial analysis. In trials in which individuals are randomised, increases in power and reductions in bias arise if variables correlated with outcomes, such as levels of outcome collected at baseline, are introduced into analyses. In cluster randomised trials covariates can occur at two levels, the cluster and the individual level, and there may be complicated relationships between covariates at different levels. There has been a small amount of work in this area but a comprehensive review is needed, particularly for non-continuous and non-normally distributed outcomes. The aim of this project is to review existing knowledge and practice in relation to choosing covariates in cluster randomised trials and to develop recommendations for choosing covariates to enter into analyses of cluster randomised trials. The project will involve systematically reviewing methodological literature and empirical trial reports, analysis of data from empirical trials and simulation. The Centre has over 15 years’ experience in conducting trials and was rated fourth in the UK in health services research in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise. The successful applicant will be based within the Pragmatic Clinical Trials Unit located within the Centre and will have extensive training opportunities both in research and statistical methods as appropriate. The Centre currently hosts 14 PhD students across of range of disciplines within community health sciences. For an informal discussion please contact the lead project supervisor: Dr S Bremner Tel: 020 7882 2547 Email: [log in to unmask] or Professor S Eldridge Tel: 020 7882 2519 Email: [log in to unmask] Start Date October 2009 Entrance Requirement Must have at least an upper second class honours degree, or a lower second class honours degree plus a master’s degree in a relevant discipline. Funding Notes This studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council and comes with a tax free stipend of £15,510 per annum. This studentship is open to UK Nationals, EEA/Swiss migrant workers and non UK nationals with indefinite leave to remain in the UK who all have three years ordinary residence in the UK prior to the start of the studentship. To apply, please download the School of Medicine & Dentistry application form from our website: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/index.html and return to the Admissions Office - email: [log in to unmask] Please note that we accept postal and electronic applications. Referees may email references directly to [log in to unmask]