Fully Funded PhD in Heat Resilience, Female Mental Health, and Physical Activity London South Bank University in United Kingdom

London South Bank University is advertising a fully funded PhD on heat resilience in the UK, focusing on heatwaves, female mental health, and physical activity. The project is interdisciplinary and sits across psychology and physiology, with a strong emphasis on mixed-methods research.

The study will examine how extreme heat affects women’s mental wellbeing and engagement in physical activity, especially during increasingly frequent heatwaves linked to climate change. The project will use methods such as physiological monitoring (for example HRV and temperature), validated psychological assessments, and qualitative interviews to capture both acute and chronic responses.

The supervisory team includes Dr Freya Bayne, Dr Rita Ferraz de Oliveira, and Dr Lisa Mohamad Zaidell. The research is based at London South Bank University and is connected to the Human Performance Centre. The project aims to generate evidence with direct relevance for public health, climate adaptation policy, and mental health interventions, with potential collaboration involving local councils, community groups, and health practitioners.

This PhD is described as 3 years and fully funded, including a fee waiver and a stipend of £21,669 including London weighting. The post also notes that the research may contribute to future partnerships and funding through UKRI, NIHR, and local authority initiatives.

Applicants should have a background in sport and exercise science or a related science discipline, with an MSc or MRes in exercise physiology or a related area preferred. Experience in mixed methods research is important, especially with female participants. The advert also states that candidates must have the right to work in the UK.

The application process requires a 1,000-word research proposal aligned to the project summary, submitted through the official LSBU application platform. Applicants should also provide a CV, cover letter, and supporting documents such as certificates/transcripts. When applying, candidates should quote the relevant project reference number. The deadline is 3 August 2026.

Overall, this is a strong opportunity for candidates interested in female health, mental wellbeing, exercise physiology, psychology, and the health impacts of climate change and heatwaves.