Industry: Technology
Study area: Environmental & Biological Science, Health, Medical Science
Partner: Southern.IML
Suburb: Coniston, NSW
Why:
Stability of Factor VIII Activity Under Local Pre Analytical Conditions:
This research project investigates how pre analytical variables—such as transport time, temperature, and specimen handling—affect the stability of Factor VIII (FVIII) activity within a regional pathology laboratory network. Conducted as part of a university student internship, the study will analyse routinely collected coagulation specimens originating from geographically dispersed collection centres across the South Coast and Illawarra.
The project aims to determine the degree of pre analytical variation that can be tolerated without clinically significant degradation of FVIII activity. It will assess factors including transport duration, storage conditions, and delays to centrifugation or testing, reflecting real-world workflows in a high throughput laboratory environment. The study will generate evidence to support local specimen acceptance criteria, optimise transport and processing pathways, and ensure compliance with ISO 15189 requirements for verifying sample integrity.
Findings from this work are intended to strengthen the reliability of coagulation testing, reduce unnecessary recollections, and support accurate, evidence based clinical decision making for patients undergoing investigation or management of bleeding disorders.
Paid
Yes
Selection Criteria
Applicants must have completed their Research Proposal Review (or have the date scheduled), be within their first 18months of candidature and provide approval by their academic supervisor.
Skills wish list (you don't need all to apply):
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to follow laboratory procedures accurately and consistently.
- Good communication and teamwork skills to work effectively with scientists, laboratory aides, and other healthcare professionals.
- Basic laboratory knowledge and scientific understanding, particularly in pathology, biology, chemistry, or related disciplines.
- Organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and work efficiently in a busy laboratory environment.
- Commitment to quality, safety, and confidentiality, including adherence to laboratory safety requirements, quality systems, and patient privacy standards
Research Outcomes
- A structured literature review on FVIII stability and pre-analytical variables
- A dataset and study describing FVIII stability under defined real-world conditions
- Evidence-based recommendations for specimen handling and transport within the network
- A manuscript prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed journal or pathology conference
- Abstract submission to RCPA Pathology Update
- Findings from this study may inform broader considerations regarding the decentralisation of coagulation testing and optimisation of specimen transport pathways in regional and rural healthcare settings.
Other Information
Southern.IML Pathology is a leading private diagnostic laboratory in regional New South Wales, providing comprehensive pathology services to general practitioners, hospitals, and community healthcare providers from Engadine in the north to Narooma on the South Coast of NSW.
The Haematology department provides essential diagnostic support for the investigation and management of disorders of the blood and bone marrow. The team performs a wide range of testing, including full blood counts, blood film morphology, coagulation studies, and specialised assays used in the diagnosis of anaemias, bleeding and clotting disorders, haematological malignancies, and immune-mediated conditions. Haematology scientists work closely with clinicians to ensure timely interpretation of results, contributing to acute and chronic patient care across emergency, inpatient, and community settings. The department also supports quality assurance, transfusion safety, and ongoing clinical decision‑making by delivering accurate, reliable results that guide treatment pathways and improve patient outcomes throughout the region.
Reference: To apply, complete the research internship expression of interest, noting Southern.IML - Haematology when you apply.
Duration
6 months, part time
Reference
To apply, complete the research internship expression of interest, noting Southe
Application closing date
21 July 2026
Contact information
Georgia Watson