Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a complex, life-limiting condition that affects multiple organ systems and necessitates intensive, ongoing management. For children living with CF and their families, the condition brings significant physical and emotional challenges. Beyond the clinical burdens of the disease, children with CF and their carers often experience enduring loneliness and social isolation. These feelings stem from the medical demands of CF, frequent hospitalizations, and infection control measures that restrict social interactions. Loneliness, defined as the distress caused by a discrepancy between desired and actual social relationships, can have severe repercussions on mental health and quality of life. However, research specifically addressing loneliness in this population remains limited.

This PhD project aims to fill this critical gap by advancing understanding of how loneliness impacts children with CF and their carers. The study will investigate the experiences of loneliness in these groups, develop tools to measure it effectively, and explore its relationships with mental health and wellbeing. It will also aim to provide evidence for interventions that can mitigate loneliness and improve holistic care for children with chronic health conditions like CF. This is an interdisciplinary mixed-methods project, integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches.

Impact

The significance of this research lies in its potential to address loneliness as a central determinant of mental health in young people with CF and their carers. While much attention is rightly placed on managing the physical symptoms of CF, the psychological and social implications often receive less focus. Yet, loneliness has been shown to exacerbate mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, reduce adherence to treatment regimens, and overall quality of life. For carers, loneliness can amplify the already substantial emotional and physical burdens associated with caregiving, compromising their ability to provide effective support. By systematically exploring these dynamics, this project seeks to provide actionable insights that will benefit not only individuals with CF and their families but also the broader field of paediatric chronic illness care. The importance of this research extends beyond the immediate context of CF. By highlighting the role of loneliness in shaping mental health and quality of life, the project contributes to a growing recognition of social and emotional dimensions in chronic illness care. The findings could inform interventions for other paediatric populations facing similar challenges, such as those with conditions that necessitate prolonged hospital stays or isolation. Additionally, the research will contribute to broader efforts to integrate psychosocial support into healthcare, ensuring that the emotional wellbeing of patients and their families is not overlooked.

This project is supported by South Yorkshire Children and Young People’s Health Research (SCYPHeR), a collaborative initiative that brings together researchers from Sheffield Hallam University, the University of Sheffield, and Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust. The supervisory team includes experts in psychology, education, and paediatric healthcare, providing a multidisciplinary foundation for the study. The successful candidate will also benefit from access to SCYPHeR’s extensive networks, including national and international collaborations focused on tackling loneliness and improving child health.

Applications are invited from candidates with a strong background in psychology, social science, health sciences, or related fields. This is a unique chance to contribute to ground-breaking research that could transform the way loneliness is understood and managed in paediatric healthcare.

Entry Requirements

All applicants should hold a strong, relevant undergraduate degree (2.1 or above) and/or a relevant masters qualification (merit and above).

International Students (Additional Information)

International applicants* will be required to demonstrate their English language proficiency through one of the following:

1. Recent academic IELTS demonstrating an overall score of 7.0 or above with no score below 6.5 in the other components or equivalent. Recent means that your IELTS results must have been awarded two years preceding your doctoral programme's start date.

2. Educated with a UK Master's degree level (merit and above) within two years preceding your doctoral programme's start date.

*Please note that UKVI provide a list of countries exempt from the language entry requirements. If you are a national of one of these countries you will not need to provide evidence as listed above.

Applying for a studentship

To apply, candidates must submit a fully complete online application including:

• A research proposal. This should include an outline of the research questions/area, aim of the project, an understanding of the current knowledge/literature and context, the proposed methodology, the potential impact and contribution to knowledge of your project and referencing key background literature. The maximum word count is 1,500 words.
• A personal statement - In submitting your personal statement, you must answer these 4 questions. We recommend no more than 200 words for each question and include specific examples from your previous experiences (academic and professional). We want to learn more about you:

1. What relevant skills and experience do you have which you feel would help you undertake this research project?
2. How did you come up with your project proposal?
3. What opportunities do you think the doctorate will give you?
4. Provide an example demonstrating your approach to engaging with new experiences or ideas. This can be an example from your studies, work, or personal experiences.

• Copies of qualifications, certificates, and results transcripts (All applicants should hold a strong, relevant undergraduate degree (2.1 minimum) and/or a relevant masters qualification (merit minimum)).
• Details of two referees who can comment on your academic ability and readiness for PhD study.
• Copies of your passport and any relevant visas, for international applicants.

You will be assessed on your readiness for research study and the quality and feasibility of your research proposal. All suitable candidates are invited to an interview, which can take place in person or online. You will be asked questions about the project proposal and your interest in PhD level study.

Please complete an online application form for October 2025, available here . Please indicate that you are applying for the SCYPHeR scholarship in the Personal Statement section of the application form.

Closing date for applications: 17:00 (BST) on Monday 31st March 2025.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Please e-mail [email protected] if you have any questions.