Optimising Access to Routine Childhood Immunisation in General Practice (PhD Studentship) University of Bristol in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Bristol offers an outstanding opportunity to address a pressing public health issue: the decline in childhood vaccination coverage in the UK. Despite the importance of immunisation, no childhood vaccine currently meets the WHO's 95% coverage target, making this research highly relevant to national health priorities. The project is embedded within the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation and Behavioural Science, providing a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment for impactful research.

The successful candidate will investigate the reasons for variation in vaccine uptake across general practice settings and work with stakeholders—including GP staff and parents—to co-develop practical interventions aimed at making vaccination services more convenient, accessible, and equitable. The research will employ a combination of evidence synthesis, primary data analysis, and participatory co-production methods. The student will also design a feasibility study to test the intervention in real-world settings and assess its cost implications and scalability for future policy implementation.

Comprehensive training will be provided in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, evidence synthesis, and health economics. This interdisciplinary approach will equip the student with valuable skills in implementation science, health services research, and stakeholder engagement, preparing them for careers in public health policy, health services research, and vaccine delivery.

Bristol Medical School, the largest and most diverse school at the University of Bristol, is a leading centre for research and teaching in Population Health Sciences and Translational Health Sciences. The school boasts a strong track record in the Research Excellence Framework, with world-leading outputs in clinical medicine, public health, and psychology. Students will benefit from a vibrant research community and access to major research centres and programmes.

The studentship is funded for three years by the Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation and Behavioural Science (HPRU EBS), covering tuition fees for home students and a UKRI-rate stipend (£20,780 in 2025/2026). Overseas students are welcome to apply but must cover the difference between home and overseas fees. The anticipated start date is September 2026, with applications closing on January 26, 2026.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a 2.1 degree (or equivalent). A relevant Master's degree or research experience is advantageous but not required. The programme welcomes candidates from diverse and non-traditional backgrounds who can demonstrate relevant skills and experience. Enthusiasm for learning mixed methods research and a commitment to collaborative work are essential. The application process includes submitting a personal statement outlining your training, experience, motivation, and reasons for applying to the University of Bristol.

For further details and to apply, visit the project page. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about improving public health outcomes and developing expertise in health services research and implementation science.