PhD Studentship: Beyond the Written Word: How people with severe mental illness interpret and respond to written communication

Overview

Applications are open for a four-year PhD studentship titled Beyond the Written Word: How people with severe mental illness interpret and respond to written communication. The project investigates how adults living with severe mental illness respond to written information concerning their mental health and care, and how these responses influence subsequent action or inaction over time. Written materials may encompass clinical letters, electronic health records, and digital communications. Guided by a realist approach, the research aims to explore why particular outcomes arise under certain circumstances and will utilize longitudinal qualitative methods, potentially featuring repeat interviews and observations. The successful candidate will collaborate with individuals who have lived experience, National Health Service practitioners, academics, and the supervisory team to help shape the study focus, research questions, and methods, with findings ultimately contributing to recommendations or resources for improving mental healthcare written communication.

Who can apply

This opportunity is restricted to applicants who satisfy the residency requirements for Home fee status.

What you get

The studentship is supported for a duration of four years and provides full Home tuition fees along with an annual stipend of £21,805 based on the 2026-27 rate.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 12 November 2026, with the studentship scheduled to commence on 1 January 2027. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews shortly following the application deadline.