Clinical Education PhD at the University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom

Clinical Education PhD at the University of Edinburgh (School location: Little France, Edinburgh, United Kingdom) is a postgraduate research opportunity for applicants interested in medical education, health professions education, assessment, and clinical identity.

The programme builds on the Medical Education Unit’s expertise and focuses on two main research themes: Assessment (including high-stakes assessment data, fairness, new assessment tools, and predictive validity) and Identity (including clinical identity formation, simulation, healthy identity growth, and threats such as burnout and mental health challenges).

This is a PhD programme with both full-time (3 years) and part-time (6 years) study options. The page indicates a 2027 year of entry and multiple start dates.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should normally hold a UK masters degree or international equivalent in a clinical, medical, or health field, plus a primary clinical qualification (for example MBChB, BVS, BDS, or Bachelor of Nursing). Relevant experience in clinical, medical, allied healthcare, or veterinary education is required. The programme may also consider applicants with biomedical or social science qualifications, or professional qualifications such as RGN, if they have appropriate clinical experience. English language evidence is required.

Application process: before applying, you must contact the Programme Director to discuss your research proposal. The page states there is no application fee. Applicants must submit a personal statement, relevant knowledge/training skills, a research proposal if applicable, degree certificates and transcripts, references, and English language evidence. Two references are required, and an interview is part of the process.

Funding: no dedicated funding package is advertised on the page. The university notes that students often combine loans, family support, savings, work income, employer sponsorship, and scholarships. University of Edinburgh graduates may receive a 10% tuition discount.

Research environment: doctoral students receive support from at least two academic supervisors and a thesis committee, with access to PhD training workshops, the Medical Education Forum, and research meetings. The unit collaborates with university faculty, clinicians, NHS Education for Scotland, and other institutions.

How to apply: email the Programme Director first, then complete the online PhD application and choose the 3-year or 6-year Clinical Education option. Prepare your proposal and supporting documents in advance.