The University of Liverpool is offering a fully funded PhD and MSc opportunity in the Psychology of Outdoor Advertising, focusing on the impact of advertising—especially for meat and dairy products—on health, environmental outcomes, and social norms. This research will use experimental, statistical, and computational modelling methods to investigate how advertising exposure relates to mental health and environmental issues, and whether counter-advertising (subvertising) can shift consumption behaviors. The project is conducted in close partnership with Adfree Cities, providing real-world policy impact and hands-on experience in advocacy, campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.

The successful candidate will lead empirical studies, co-create policy recommendations, and participate in in-person placements supporting campaigns. The studentship includes comprehensive academic training, hybrid working, and opportunities for policy engagement. The program is open to UK/Home students only, with no visa sponsorship available. Applicants should have a first-class undergraduate degree and/or a Master’s in Psychology or a relevant quantitative field, demonstrate strong quantitative data analysis skills, and be willing to develop advanced methods expertise. Candidates with less experience in advanced quantitative methods may be required to complete the funded MSc plus PhD route.

Funding is provided through a NWSSDTP CASE studentship, covering full tuition fees and a stipend of £20,780 per year (2025/26 rate). The application process involves submitting a cover letter, CV, and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form to Dr Charlotte Buckley via email, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Supervisors include Dr Charlotte Buckley and Professor Eric Robinson (University of Liverpool), Dr Matthew Thomas (University of Manchester), and Nicola Wilks (Adfree Cities). For more information, visit the University of Liverpool course page or contact the supervisors directly.