A fully funded 3-year PhD studentship commencing in October 2024 is open within Durham University’s Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences. The focus of this PhD is to conduct research on promoting multidisciplinary/interprofessional physical activity. The aim is to enhance understanding and provide guidance for social care and health professionals to collaborate effectively in promoting physical activity among disabled individuals. This PhD is part of the acclaimed project ‘Moving Social Work,’ conducted in collaboration with Disability Rights UK. The project aims to integrate physical activity advocacy into social work education, training, and practice, involving and benefiting disabled individuals.

PhD students under this program benefit from close supervision by internationally recognized faculty specializing in their respective research domains. Besides, the studentship offers various advantages, including access to research methodology training, participation in departmental seminars and conferences, and opportunities to collaborate with partners and prominent external organizations to influence physical activity initiatives. This opportunity is available only for domestic applicants.

Applicants should possess:

  • A 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in one of the following subjects: Sport and Exercise Sciences, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Health Sciences, or Public Health
  • Evidence of conducting mixed method research in the context of physical activity and/or social work
  • The ability to work independently, as part of a team, and engage with the public effectively
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Enthusiasm, passion, and interest in the specified topic area

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted via the Durham University applicant portal, citing program code B6A101.

Applicants should indicate the specific scholarship they are applying for under the Finance and Funding section of the application. Please select ‘Other’ and specify ‘Physical Activity, Moving Professionals, and Disability Studentship’.

The selection process will be based on application documents and interviews.

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

  • A research proposal, not exceeding 1,500 words (excluding bibliography), demonstrating alignment of the PhD research with personal qualities and expertise, supported by relevant theoretical and empirical literature, and outlining potential methodological approaches and challenges.
  • Current Curriculum Vitae/Resumé (maximum 2 pages)
  • Two reference letters, with at least one addressing academic expertise
  • Transcripts of previous degrees

Closing Date: May 2nd, 2024

Funding Amount: The studentship covers a 3-year period, offering a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum along with UK tuition fees.

Eligibility: This funding opportunity is exclusively available for UK students.

Study Mode: Full-time

More information: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DGL639/phd-studentship-physical-activity-moving-professionals-and-disability