PhD Scholarship in Global Health Systems and Policy at University College Dublin

The University College Dublin (UCD) School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems is offering a prestigious Ad Astra PhD Scholarship in Global Health, commencing in September 2026. This opportunity is ideal for motivated researchers interested in tackling complex global health challenges, with a focus on community engagement, health equity, and policy-relevant research. The programme encourages interdisciplinary, cross-country, and innovative research methods, including realist evaluation and participatory approaches. The PhD project will investigate how meaningful community engagement operates within health systems globally and identify strategies to strengthen engagement for improved health equity across international contexts. Research topics may include community participation, equity and gender in global health, and the lived experiences of marginalized groups in policy and practice. Projects that are interdisciplinary or utilize novel methodologies are particularly encouraged. The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr Sara Dada, Ad Astra Fellow and Assistant Professor in Global Public Health and Policy at UCD, and will benefit from co-supervision with faculty from the UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science. The student will also join the UCD IRIS Centre, contributing to collaborative and innovative health systems research. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for four years, provides a stipend of €25,000 per annum for living expenses, and includes a research activities budget of €31,000. Applicants must have a relevant academic background (health, social science, or education), experience in research methods, and meet English language requirements if applicable. Applications are welcome from candidates worldwide, including those with experience as family carers. To apply, submit a CV, personal statement, research proposal, and a generative AI and reflexivity statement via the online form by April 16, 2026. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Sara Dada at [email protected]. UCD is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all its programmes.