PhD Studentship – Global Patterns and Pathways of Loneliness and its Links to Lifestyle and Mental Health among Young People
University of Bradford – Institute of Health and Social Care (ESRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership)
Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
General Description –
The University of Bradford, in collaboration with the Bradford Institute for Health Research and Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, is offering a fully funded PhD studentship as part of the Global Patterns and Pathways of Loneliness, and its Links to Lifestyle and Mental Health among Young People project. This research-intensive doctoral role sits within the Wellbeing, Health and Communities pathway of the White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership (WRDTP). The successful candidate will pursue an ESRC-funded +3 PhD studentship focused on advancing understanding of how loneliness manifests among young populations worldwide, identifying lifestyle correlates, and exploring associations with mental health outcomes. This interdisciplinary project will involve quantitative and/or qualitative approaches to identify global patterns and pathways, potentially engaging with existing cohort datasets, secondary data analysis, comparative studies across regions, and mixed methods designs. The studentship is embedded in a supportive research environment that bridges academic inquiry and public health practice, and the student will benefit from mentorship by expert supervisors and access to collaborative networks.
Eligibility Criteria –
Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) a first-class or strong upper-second class honours undergraduate degree (e.g., 2:1 or above) in a relevant discipline such as psychology, public health, epidemiology, statistics, social sciences, behavioural sciences, or a related field. A Master’s degree with outstanding performance in a relevant subject is desirable. Candidates are expected to meet UKRI and ESRC eligibility requirements for doctoral funding, including residency/qualification criteria where applicable, and to demonstrate the ability to undertake doctoral-level research.
Required Expertise/Skills –
Demonstrated interest in mental health, loneliness research, youth wellbeing, or related social/behavioural science topics.
Strong analytical skills and familiarity with quantitative methodologies, qualitative methods, or mixed methods research.
Ability to critically engage with literature, synthesize evidence, and contribute to the development of research questions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills suitable for academic writing and presentation.
Capacity to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research environment.
Salary Details –
The studentship includes a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (approximately £21,805 for 2026/27) along with full tuition fee coverage and additional support for research training and development.
Application Deadline –
Specific closing date and application timeline are detailed on the official vacancy; prospective applicants are advised to consult the application materials for the deadline.