Mapping intersectional inequalities: racism and mental health in the Midlands' ethnic minority communities

About the Project

This PhD project will explore the intersection of racism and mental health among ethnic minority communities in the Midlands, UK. The research will investigate how structural and interpersonal racism contributes to mental health inequalities, particularly among Black and South Asian populations. The Midlands, with its rich ethnic diversity and persistent health disparities, offers a critical context to examine the cumulative impact of racial trauma, social disadvantage, and systemic neglect on mental wellbeing.

Project summary and methodology

Using a mixed-methods, participatory approach, the doctoral student will engage with community members, mental health service users, and mental healthcare professionals across urban and semi-urban settings in the Midlands. Key objectives include measuring perceived racial discrimination, and capturing lived experiences through narrative interviews and creative methods. The research will be underpinned by intersectionality theory, recognising the complex interplay of race, gender, class and migration status in shaping mental health outcomes.

The project aims to co-produce culturally appropriate interventions and training resources with community stakeholders, contributing to anti-racist mental health care practices. Ultimately, this research seeks to generate actionable knowledge to reduce mental health inequalities and promote inclusive, community-centred care for ethnic minority groups in the UK.

How to apply

You can submit an online application for via this webpage. If you have any informal queries, please contact: Professor Lisa Dikomitis (Lisa.Dikomitis@warwick.ac.uk) Professor Domenico Giacco (Domenico.Giacco@warwick.ac.uk)

Key Information

• Start date: 5 October 2026
• Duration: Four years, stipend available for 3 years of the project.
• Entry requirements: Applicants must hold a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a related field, or be on track to be awarded such a degree before October 2026.
• Eligibility: Open to UK students only.
• Application deadline: 7 June 2026

If you have any queries on the application process, please contact wmsrdcoord@warwick.ac.uk