PhD Studentship: 125th Anniversary Scholarship for Black British Researchers - What Matters to Patients in the Treatment of Lupus Nephritis? A Mixed Methods Study of Patient Preferences

Lupus nephritis (LN) is an autoimmune kidney disease which if inadequately treated results in chronic kidney disease or end-stage kidney failure. Although guidelines for LN management exist, we have identified differences in physician's treatment preferences for LN across the UK. In a parallel study we are investigating the decision cues used by physicians to select treatment.

As effective clinical decision-making is a shared process, it is critical to understand patient preferences with regards to treatment. This project will allow you to study in detail patient preferences with respect to LN treatment, the relative importance of these and how they align with the opinions of other stakeholders.

Proposed methods

This mixed methods study will comprise 3 phases:

Phase 1: You will conduct semi-structured exploratory interviews with patients both with LN and with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who have not developed LN but may be considered “at risk”. You will analyse transcripts using content and inductive thematic analysis (full training will be given, see below).

Phase 2: You will conduct a survey involving Q methodology to define the relative importance of treatment attributes important for decision making that were identified in Phase 1.

Phase 3: You will hold focus groups with key stakeholders (patients, physicians, charity representatives, commissioners) to explore the findings from phases 1 and 2 and triangulate these with data from our separate study of decision cues used by physicians to identify areas of commonality or critical differences.

Impact

This study will provide an essential understanding of patient preferences for treatment of LN. This study has clear relevance for pharmaceutical companies who are developing new treatments for LN.

Our findings will also inform future clinical guidelines for the treatment on LN, directly addressing treatment-related factors or attributes which are important for patients.

Your supervisory team

The supervisors for this doctoral research project are Dr John Reynolds and Dr Marie Falahee. A unique aspect of this project is that it will be supported by an established expert panel comprised nephrologists, rheumatologists with expertise in the management of lupus and 2-3 patient partners who will advise on the development of the semi-structured interviews, interpretation of findings, development of the survey and support in setting up the focus groups.

Research training and support

You be supported to pursue a tailored training plan with annual review and update; to build the methodological and empirical knowledge you need to complete the project.

You will attend a 5-day Qualitative Research Methods course at the university. Training in analysis of quantitative data obtained from Q-methodology will be provided by the supervisory team. Alongside specialist training, you will develop transferable skills in research ethics and governance, good research practice, patient and public involvement, science communication and impact and engagement.

For more information and to apply on-line, please click the above “Apply” button.

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information

The University of Birmingham is proud to celebrate its remarkable 125-year journey and announce the launch of a groundbreaking scholarship initiative designed to empower and support Black British researchers in their pursuit of doctoral education.

These newly established 3.5-year scholarships aim to address underrepresentation and create opportunities for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to excel in academia. You can find out more here: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/funding/black-british-researchers-scholarship

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