Predictors of outcome in the Transforming Parkinson’s Care in Africa (TraPCAf) cohort: 3 year follow up study.

Prof Richard Walker, Dr Tash Fothergill-Misbah

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Competition Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

About the Project

This PhD presents an opportunity for applicants to join the Transforming Parkinson’s Care in Africa (TraPCAf) global health research group, working at the forefront of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) research across five countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Students would collaborate with an inspiring multidisciplinary group of researchers and clinicians spanning multiple career stages and countries, all dedicated to improving outcomes for people affected by PD in Africa.

The proposed PhD is positioned at a key transition between baseline and follow-up data collection, enabling you to participate in the gathering of comprehensive clinical and phenotypic information. Key aims within this project would be to determine response to drug treatment, prognostic indicators and describe motor and non-motor phenotype of PD across Africa.

By enabling the opportunity to engage with a wide range of working groups including diagnostic aids and technological innovations, microbiome and qualitative research, applicants will gain broad experience and develop key skills in modern neuroscience and global health research with flexibility to support individual interests. There are opportunities to lead on specific research aspects, visit collaborating sites for hands-on data collection in resource-limited environments, and join collaborative training groups such as the Global Parkinson’s Genetics Programme (GP2) ECR cohort.

The project will lead to the generation of unique, high-impact data sets and the chance to both lead on and co-author peer-reviewed publications. Students will be encouraged to present their work at international conferences, such as the International Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Society Congress, enhancing their academic profile and network.

Funding

Students who have, or are expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, are invited to apply. Funding is available for Home (UK) students to cover tuition fees, a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (indicative amount in year 1 in 2026-27, £21,805) and research costs, for four years. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

Funding for this studentship is awarded on a competitive basis and is not guaranteed; availability will depend on the outcome of the selection process and subject to final approval by the University.

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the following application form – Google Form

Applicants can only apply for 1 project; any additional applications will not be accepted.

Applicants should send the following documents to FMSstudentships@newcastle.ac.uk:

• a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees).
• a Cover letter – stating your project choice, as well as including additional information you feel is pertinent to your application.
• copies of your relevant undergraduate degree transcripts and certificates.
• a copy of your IELTS or TOEFL English language certificate (where required)
• a copy of your passport (photo page).

A GUIDE TO THE FORMAT REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE

Please submit your documents in the following format only:

• each document should be submitted as a separate attachment and should be named as follows: candidate surname, candidate name – document type. For example: Jones, Jamie – CV; Jones, Jamie – cover letter.
• Please submit .pdf documents where possible for your CV, cover letter, transcripts and certificates. Do not submit photos of certificates.
• Do not combine documents into one pdf. You may zip separate documents into a zip file to send via email if required.
• When emailing your application, please use the email subject header: FMS PhD Application 2026

Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.

Informal enquiries may be made to the lead supervisor of the project you are interested in.

The deadline for all applications is 12 noon BST (UK time) on Wednesday 20th May 2026.