The influence of age and reproductive status on stress perception and responsivity Project outline There is a growing body of evidence supporting an association between higher levels of stress and reproductive failure. However, the association is weaker in women of advanced reproductive age (>35 years) compared with younger women. This is consistent with the reproductive suppression model which posits reproduction should not be suppressed when the costs of delay in terms of lost reproductive opportunities out weigh the benefits of suppression. But what are the mechanisms? This project will examine the influence of age and different reproductive states (for example, nulliparous, multiparous) on women's perception of stress and their physiological reactivity to a variety of stressors. Project is suitable for Honours, Masters, PhD Supervisor Essential qualifications For Honours: An appropriate undergraduate degree with a biological science emphasis, and a minimum weighted average of 65% in the level 3 subjects that comprise the relevant major from an approved institution. Applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. For Masters or PhD: An appropriate Honours degree with a biological science emphasis or equivalent research experience from an approved institution. Applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Desirable skills/experience Knowledge of statistics, second and third year Anatomy and Human Biology Reproductive Biology units or equivalent, background in psychology. .
The influence of age and reproductive status on stress perception and responsivity Project outline There is a growing body of evidence supporting an association between higher levels of stress and reproductive failure. However, the association is weaker in women of advanced reproductive age (>35 years) compared with younger women. This is consistent with the reproductive suppression model which posits reproduction should not be suppressed when the costs of delay in terms of lost reproductive opportunities out weigh the benefits of suppression. But what are the mechanisms? This project will examine the influence of age and different reproductive states (for example, nulliparous, multiparous) on women's perception of stress and their physiological reactivity to a variety of stressors. Project is suitable for Honours, Masters, PhD Supervisor Essential qualifications For Honours: An appropriate undergraduate degree with a biological science emphasis, and a minimum weighted average of 65% in the level 3 subjects that comprise the relevant major from an approved institution. Applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. For Masters or PhD: An appropriate Honours degree with a biological science emphasis or equivalent research experience from an approved institution. Applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Desirable skills/experience Knowledge of statistics, second and third year Anatomy and Human Biology Reproductive Biology units or equivalent, background in psychology. .
Honours-Handout-APHB-2013-final.docx