PhD: Co-sleeping in Children with Intellectual Disability (Aston-Deakin Cotutelle Programme)
The Aston-Deakin Cotutelle PhD is a unique partnership between Aston University (Birmingham, UK) and Deakin University (Melbourne, Australia), offering students the opportunity to undertake research training in an international, collaborative environment. This fully-funded PhD project, based at Aston University, focuses on co-sleeping practices among children with intellectual disabilities (ID) and their caregivers—a topic with significant implications for child and caregiver wellbeing.
Co-sleeping is common in children with ID, often arising from difficulties with sleep onset or night wakings. The project will use a mixed-methods approach to examine the prevalence of co-sleeping, explore the experiences and perceptions of children and caregivers, and investigate its relationship to child behaviour, sleep quality, and psychological wellbeing. The research objectives include: (1) delineating the prevalence of ‘preferred’ and ‘reactive’ co-sleeping, (2) exploring perspectives using creative visual methods, and (3) examining the developmental trajectory and impact of co-sleeping on sleep and wellbeing.
Methods include a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, qualitative work with children and caregivers using visual techniques (such as body mapping and artwork), and a longitudinal follow-up study with objective sleep assessment (actigraphy) and questionnaires. The project will recruit participants from diverse cultural backgrounds in both the UK and Australia, including groups where co-sleeping is culturally valued.
Outcomes will inform the co-production of sleep intervention recommendations for families who co-sleep, contributing to improved wellbeing for children with ID and their caregivers. The PhD is primarily based at Aston University, with a 6–12 month research period at Deakin University, and is open to students worldwide.
Funding covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and one return flight between the UK and Australia. The studentship lasts three years, with funding provided by the home institution. Applicants must submit transcripts and certificates for all higher education degrees, a research statement, a personal statement, two academic references (at least one from the most recent university), evidence of English language proficiency, and a copy of their passport. Applications missing documents will be rejected.
For further information, contact Dr Georgie Agar ([email protected]) or [email protected]. Apply online via Deakin University (application link pending). The deadline for applications is March 31, 2026.
