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PhD in Menstrual Health, Microbiome and Resilience in Challenging Military Environments University of Southampton in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Data Science
Funding
Competition funded. The project is listed as competition funded, with fees and funding details available through the University of Southampton.
Deadline
Dec 18, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Southampton
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About this position
MARCH – Menstrual health and resilience in challenging military environments is a PhD project at the University of Southampton examining why heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) may be recognised late in servicewomen undertaking demanding military training.
The research will investigate how the physical and psychological stresses of military training affect the gut and vaginal microbiome and metabolome, and whether these changes are associated with HMB. The project aims to identify biological markers that could support earlier detection, diagnosis and treatment of menstrual health problems.
The doctoral researcher will work with servicewomen completing arduous military training and collect biological materials including stool, vaginal swabs and used sanitary products. Laboratory work will involve DNA sequencing, metabolomics and gold-standard assessment of menstrual blood loss. The project will also use statistical and machine-learning methods to examine relationships between microbial communities, biochemical activity, training-related stress and HMB biomarkers.
This interdisciplinary research environment combines women’s health, microbiology, analytical chemistry, data science and applied military research. The supervisory and collaborative network spans the University of Southampton, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Army Health research, offering experience across academic and Defence settings. Findings may contribute to improved monitoring and support for menstrual health, readiness and performance in military populations.
Funding details
Competition funded. The project is listed as competition funded, with fees and funding details available through the University of Southampton.
What's required
Applicants require a 2:1 honours degree. The project involves interdisciplinary work across women’s health, microbiology, analytical chemistry, data science and applied military research; relevant preparation or interest in these areas is appropriate.
How to apply
Review the project and full entry requirements on the University of Southampton webpage, then apply through the university’s postgraduate research application process before 18 December 2026.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.