qualitative interviews and diaries, and quantitative measures, the study will explore how perceptions of illness and treatment evolve over time. Findings will inform patient-centred strategies to improve adherence and support recovery.
Academic criteria: Applicants for a studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK.
English requirements: IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or acceptable alternative.
Essential criteria
- First class/good upper second degree, or a distinction/merit at masters’ level, in a relevant subject
- Strong knowledge of health psychological theory and processes
- Proven ability to carry out robust research
- Experience handling confidential data
- Excellent communication skills
Desirable criteria
- Experience of working in mental health context
- Good knowledge of mental health pharmacology
- Experience of working with young people and their families
- Experience collecting and analysing interview and patient reported outcome measures data
- Experience evaluating psychological variables and/or health behaviours
- Experience of mixed methods data analysis
- Experience of open research practices
- Experience with public and patient involvement in research or experience communicating with patient groups
How to apply
Applicants should apply directly through the GW4 BioMed3 webpage here: Applications will open on 9th September - GW4 BioMed MRC DTP. Studentships have a start date of 1st Oct 2027. Please click on the How to Apply button to access the application guidance and form. Application deadline is 5pm Wednesday 21st October 26. Please note that we may close the application process before the stated deadline if an unprecedented number of applications are received– check the GW4 BioMed website for details and updates. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be 26/27th January 2027. Link to web page: GW4 BioMed MRC DTP
Funding Notes
These studentships are funded through GW4 BioMed3 MRC Doctoral Landscape Programme and consist of UK tuition fees, as well as a Doctoral Stipend matching UK Research Council National Minimum (£21, 805 p.a. for 2026/27, updated each year).
Additional research training and support funding of up to £5,000 per annum is also available. GW4 BioMed3 studentships are available to UK and International applicants. All studentships will be competitively awarded and there is a limit to the number of international students that we can accept into our programme (up to 30% cap across our partners per annum).
