PhD Studentship in the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC): North East and North Cumbria (NENC): Researching Equity, Access and Place-based-health: Community-based Diagnostics

Overview

Newcastle University is offering a PhD studentship within the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North East and North Cumbria on equity, access and place-based health, viewed through Community Diagnostic Centres. The project will study how these centres affect health inequalities and support accessible, community-based care. It is based in the North East of England and examines impact at individual and community levels.

The researcher will use mixed methods: qualitative work on the perspectives and impact of the centres for service users and healthcare staff, and advanced statistical methods to explore associations between access to the centres and community and place-based health outcomes. Knowledge mobilisation approaches will share findings locally and regionally. The supervisory team has expertise in health inequalities, service access, equity, diversity and inclusion, place-based health and statistics, and the work involves close collaboration with the Great North Healthcare Alliance and public contributors, with links to the NIHR Newcastle Patient Safety Research Collaboration.

What you get

The award pays 100 percent of home tuition fees and an annual stipend of 21,805 GBP (the 2026 to 27 UKRI rate), with significant additional funding for research costs and travel. There is one award, starting in January 2027, lasting 3.5 years including an 8-week placement. Part-time options are available on request.

Who can apply

Applicants should have some knowledge of or skills in mixed methods, qualitative or quantitative research and be educated to master's level in a health-related topic such as public health. The studentship is open only to applicants with Home fee status, meaning UK applicants and EU applicants with pre-settled or settled status who meet the residency criteria.

How to apply

Applications go through the university's online application portal for the full-time PhD in Population Health Sciences with a January 2027 start, quoting the reference ARC2. A research proposal is not required, but a covering letter and CV can be uploaded. One application is needed per studentship.

Key dates

The closing date is 20 October 2026.