PhD Studentship: Intersectionality in the Design and Delivery of Digital Mental Health Services for Disadvantaged Populations

Project details

As digital mental health services continue to expand, their potential to address unmet mental health needs is undeniable. However, their design and delivery must account for the diverse social identities that shape individuals' experiences and access to care. For underserved populations – such as ethnic minorities, migrants, and refugees – factors like age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status and gender intersect in complex ways, influencing how these services are perceived and utilised.

This research underscores the urgent need to examine how digital mental health interventions can be tailored to the unique challenges and needs of these populations. By understanding the interplay between diverse social identities and digital platforms, we can uncover insights to develop more inclusive, culturally competent, and effective approaches.

The goal is to ensure that digital mental health services not only reach underserved groups but truly resonate with and empower them, bridging gaps in care and fostering mental well-being across all communities.

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Dr Adedapo Adebajo

Secondary supervisors: Professor Thorsten Gruber and Dr Cecilia Landa-Avila

Entry requirements

At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) with a UK master's degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Loughborough Business School requires a minimum IELTS band 7.0 or above with not less than 7.0 in each component. Further details are available on the international website.

Funding

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus University tuition fees.

How to apply

1. Put together your research proposal (between 2,500 to 3,000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal.
2. All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Business School'. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number: LB25-AA-Funded.

Contact details 

Call: +44 (0)1509 228072

Email: a.adebajo@lboro.ac.uk

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