PhD Studentship: Innovative Ways of Supporting Physical Activity Promotion and the Systems That Drive It

Award Summary

100% of home tuition fees and annual living expenses at UKRI rate (currently £19237 for 24/25) plus a research training support grant of £5000/yr to cover relevant costs. Please note: International students are eligible to apply but will be required to make up the difference between home and international fees (approx.. £25,000per annum based on current rates).

Overview

Despite decades of collective efforts, there has been little reduction in global and UK physical inactivity. We are interested in researching new approaches to how systems (e.g. politicians, national and local policymakers, charities, and communities) bring about changes in physical activity. We are looking for a student who can think creatively with theory from different areas (e.g., sport and exercise sciences, psychology, sociology, political and systems sciences), regardless of their disciplinary background. We will work together to understand how we can better support the sport and physical activity system, and those within it, to thrive. You will develop a range of research methods and engage closely with policymakers and practitioners. 

Number Of Awards

1

Start Date

September 2025

Award Duration

3 years

Application Closing Date

31st January 2025

Sponsor

Newcastle University, Faculty of Medical Sciences

Supervisors

Professor Emily Oliver (Principal Supervisor); Dr Benjamin Rigby and Dr Laura McGowan; all based in the Population Health Sciences Institute.

Eligibility Criteria

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, and particularly those from demographic groups that are underrepresented in higher education and at Newcastle University. We are keen to meet a diverse range of candidates who may have followed different post-degree training and career pathways to date. 

Applicants should possess a minimum 2:1 degree in psychology, public health, behavioural sciences, sport and exercise sciences, or a related field. While a master’s degree with Merit or higher is preferred, it is not mandatory, and we will consider candidates with comparable research experiences. Importantly, candidates must be eager to engage in interdisciplinary research, to work creatively, and to develop advanced research skills. A keen interest in physical activity at a population level is crucial.

If your first language is not English you need an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (at least 5.5 in all sub-skills) or equivalent language qualification. International applicants may require an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate prior to obtaining their visa and to study this programme.

How To Apply

You must apply through the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal via the 'Apply' button above.

In ‘Course choice’ tab, click ‘Search Course’ put ‘Postgraduate Research’ in 'Type of Study', ‘Full Time’ in ‘Mode of Study’, ‘2025’ in ‘Year of Entry’, code ‘8370F’ in ‘Course Title’, blank in ‘Research Area’. Press ‘Search’, select ‘PhD Population Health Sciences (FT)’, and click ‘Save selection.’ 

In the ‘Personal Statement’ section please put ‘not required’. Put code ‘PH058’ in ‘Studentship/Partnership Reference’. When prompted for research proposal, select ‘Write Proposal’. Please upload or type a maximum of 500 words outlining how two theories of your choice can help us to understand how the physical activity system can thrive. You can also upload a CV; a cover letter is not required. 

Contact Details

Please do reach out to discuss the opportunity, or if you have any questions, via email: Professor Emily Oliver: emily.oliver@ncl.ac.uk

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