Psychology: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Acquired Brain Injury and Legal Adjudication

Acquired brain injury is significantly overrepresented in the criminal justice system, with prevalence estimates in prison populations ranging from 50% to 80% in adult populations. The needs of individuals with brain injury who come into contact with the justice system are often complex, involving significant co-occurring challenges. 

While research has largely focused on improving identification and support within custodial settings - such as through brain injury screening tools at prison entry – far less attention has been paid to how brain injury is perceived and considered during earlier stages of the criminal justice process, particularly the adjudication phase. 

This lack of focus is important. Past research shows that nonevidential and extra-legal information can influence legal decision-making. We also know that laypeople and non-expert professionals often hold misconceptions about the long-term effects of brain injury. Yet legal decision-makers may need to interpret and synthesise complex medical and psychological information - such as evidence relating to brain injury - when reaching legal and sentencing-related decisions.  

A key consideration, then, is how individuals with brain injury are perceived and evaluated within the criminal justice system, and how this information may influence legal adjudication.  

This PhD will examine how brain injury-related information may be perceived and adjudicated upon, including sentencer awareness and the application of relevant legal guidance. Building on prior research between Swansea University and Headwise, the project will be shaped iteratively in collaboration with academic supervisors and stakeholders, using mixed methods to generate insights with real-world relevance for justice, rehabilitation, and policy reform. 

Funding Comment

Scholarship open to UK fee eligible applicants only. 

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £19,237 for 2024/25). 

Closing Date: 14 May 2025

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