inequality by bridging the gap between communities’ needs and government services. VCFSE organisations deliver community-based health supports, early intervention, and social recovery. Across West Yorkshire, VCFSE organisations are key delivery partners within the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership (WYHCP).
Capturing the economic and health contribution of these organisations, specifically their role in the prevention and early treatment, and how these translate to direct cost savings or demand alleviation for local National Health Services (NHS), remains an evidence gap. This PhD proposal should focus on evaluating the contribution of VCFSE organisations to deliver population mental health improvements and the economic contribution of VCFSE in this context.
We invite proposals from enthusiastic and highly motivated candidates with a strong academic background in economics, health economics, public health, health services research, social policy, or a related discipline, to assess the health economic impact of VCFSE organisations’ interventions, using quantitative and mixed methods approaches. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in health economics or quantitative research methods, with an understanding of complementary methodologies (such as qualitative or mixed methods approaches).
NAMES OF SUPERVISORS: Dr Narayan Poudel (University of Huddersfield), Dr Vijay GC and Prof Laura Bojke (University of York)
Applications
To apply please submit the documents listed below to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk in full by Friday 13 November 2026.
- A motivational email as to why you wish to apply for the scholarship, stating which project you are applying for.
- A 2,000-word research proposal outlining how you plan to undertake for the research topic you are applying for. Find further guidance on writing a research proposal.
- A copy of your CV.
- Copies of transcripts and certificates of all relevant academic and/or any professional qualifications.
- References from two individuals (at least one to be an academic reference). Please contact your referees and ask them to send your references directly to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk from their work email address (references can be submitted late but must be received by Friday 4 December 2026).
- Proof of eligibility – e.g. a scan of your passport photo page.
Please state the research project title in the subject area of the email when sending through your documents.
Need further support?
For any queries regarding eligibility or submitting documents, please email: pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk
For subject specific enquiries please contact Dr Narayan Poudel n.poudel@hud.ac.uk
Details of the project can be found by visiting https://www.hud.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/research-scholarships/cemh-fully-funded-scholarships/.
