Integration of physical activity support into the NHS cancer care pathway (Ref: SSEHS/KG26)

About the Project

Unequivocal evidence confirms that physical activity during chemotherapy for some cancers is safe and helps patients cope better with cancer treatment and associated side effects. Physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and ultimately can improve chances of survival by up to 40%. Physical activity for those living with and beyond cancer is endorsed by the World Health Organisation through the development of guidelines. However, physical activity support is not part of the NHS cancer care pathway in the UK and patients are not routinely informed about the potential harm of inactivity on their chances of survival.

Making Every Contact Count is an NHS campaign that aims to use the millions of routine interactions health care professionals have with their patients to promote behaviour change. This PhD will explore the development and implementation of behaviour change interventions within the NHS to support patients to minimise inactivity and improve their health.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the project around the topic area with their interests and goals together with their supervisors.

This PhD studentship is part of an NIHR Advanced Fellowship awarded to Dr Kajal Gokal who will be the primary supervisor. The successful candidate will be a member of the Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour and will be provided with multiple opportunities for development throughout the studentship.

Loughborough University has an applied research culture. In REF 2021, 94% of the work submitted was judged to be top-rated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent'.

We are a community based on mutual support and collaboration. Through our Doctoral College there are continual opportunities for building important research skills and networks among your peers and research academics.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Kajal Gokal k.gokal@lboro.ac.uk

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have achieved at least a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree in a relevant subject and have a good understanding of health related behaviours, and of research methods. A relevant Master’s degree is desirable. Interest or experience in health, physical activity, behaviour change sciences or related discipline would be an advantage.

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Funding information:

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 30th July 2026

Start date: October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Who is eligible to apply?: UK Only