It’s the way we speak: exploring the impact of accent, dialect and language in creating inclusive environments for medical education

About the Project

Decades of research and policy developments have explored how to promote diversity and inclusion in the medical profession, including via widening participation. Correspondingly, there is increasing diversity in the number of languages spoken, and accents and dialects used in medicine. This is a positive step in terms of healthcare representing the population served; however, an individual’s accent can be an indicator of their social background (e.g., socio-economic status, ethnicity) and can leave them vulnerable to accent-bias, stigmatisation and discrimination.

This study will, using qualitative methods, aim to explore experiences of diversity in accent, dialect and language among two groups of doctors in Scotland: those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and those who speak English as a second language. The student will work with the supervisory team to develop the most appropriate research methods to collect the date. We, as a research team, are well connected with medical schools across Scotland and are involved in various external networks which we can tap into to facilitate recruitment. The student will receive training in qualitative research methods e.g., interviewing and in qualitative data analysis techniques. They will also have opportunity within CHERI to participate in a research journal club, departmental meetings and there may be scope for involvement as a Demonstrator in the MSc in Clinical Education.

CHERI is the University of Aberdeen Centre for Healthcare Education Research and Innovation. The driver for CHERI's research is the understanding that effective healthcare education depends wholly on rigorous educational research. We are backed by the University of Aberdeen to fund and direct projects that help to unlock the full potential of medical education and training.

We drive innovation in three key areas: Educating for global healthcare workforce challenges, fairness within healthcare education and development, implementation and evaluation of training within healthcare education.

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Dr Katie Gibson Smith (kathrine.gibson.smith@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

Candidate Background:

Applicants to this project should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.

Previous experience in qualitative research desirable and would suit candidates from healthcare, psychology or social science backgrounds.

We actively encourage applications from diverse career paths and backgrounds and across all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status, amongst other protected characteristics.

We also invite applications from those returning from a career break, industry or other roles. We typically require a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or equivalent), but exceptions can be made where applicants can demonstrate excellence in alternative ways, including, but not limited to, performance in masters courses, professional placements, internships or employment.

Application Procedure

Important note: This is a self funded opportunity only.

To apply, please submit the following documents via email to smmsn-pgrenquiries@abdn.ac.uk

• A cover letter addressed to the supervisor of the project you're applying for.
• An up-to-date CV detailing your academic qualifications, employment history, and any other relevant experience. Please ensure your current permanent address is clearly stated, as this will be used to determine your fee status.
• Clear copies of your degree certificates and transcripts (if available).
• Evidence of settled or pre-settled status (if applicable).

Please send your application with documents attached as a single email with the subject line: "Katie Gibson Smith PhD Project - [Your Name]"

Applications for this project will remain open until a suitable candidate is appointed.

Funding Notes

This is a self-funded opportunity only.

Tuition fees for this programme are £5,238 pa. for UK/home students and £21,700 pa. for international students. Additional research costs may also apply.