University of Sheffield
Sheffield, United Kingdom

This funded PhD studentship offers a rich opportunity to advance understanding of food insecurity and nutrition among older adults through a comprehensive, multidimensional research lens. Hosted within the Sheffield Methods Institute and supported by the ESRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership, this project moves beyond traditional financial explanations of food insecurity to examine broader influences such as health and disability, mobility and frailty, transport limitations, social isolation, housing conditions, digital exclusion, motivation, and the capacity to shop and prepare food. The research will combine qualitative and quantitative methods to generate the first thorough investigation of the comparative relevance of financial and other risk factors affecting food access and nutrition in community‑dwelling older people. Embedded within this work is a three‑month Research in Practice placement with Sheffield City Council, offering direct engagement with local policy contexts and essential services. Outcomes of this project aim to inform local service delivery, enrich academic discourse on ageing and food security, and support evidence‑informed strategies for improving nutrition and wellbeing in older populations.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or be expected to obtain, a degree appropriate to doctoral study in social sciences, nutrition, public health, health sciences, or related fields. Demonstrated interest and some experience in research relevant to food insecurity, ageing, health inequities or community nutrition will strengthen applications.

Required Expertise, Skills
Ideal candidates will have experience with or a strong interest in qualitative and mixed‑methods research approaches, excellent interpersonal skills for working with older adult populations, and the ability to engage thoughtfully with interdisciplinary frameworks spanning sociology, public health, nutrition and policy. Strong analytical skills and the aptitude to work both independently and collaboratively are important for contributing to this complex, participatory research environment.

Salary Details 
The studentship covers full tuition fees at the Home or Overseas rate and includes an annual maintenance grant consistent with UKRI funding norms, with amounts expected to meet or exceed UKRI’s standard stipend for 2026/27. A Research and Training Support Grant is also provided.

Application Deadline 
The application deadline for this studentship is 13 March 2026.

Application Link

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