PhD: Realist Evaluation of Non-Pharmacological Management of Antipsychotic Weight Gain in Severe Mental Illness and Learning Disability (SMI-LD) Dual Diagnosis (RESOLVE-LD) Aston University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Aston University investigates the non-pharmacological management of antipsychotic-induced weight gain in individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) and learning disability (LD) dual diagnosis. Antipsychotics are essential for treating SMI, such as schizophrenia, but are linked to significant weight gain, increasing risks for diabetes and cardiovascular disease and reducing life expectancy by up to 20 years. The project builds on the NIHR RESOLVE study, which previously explored non-pharmacological interventions for antipsychotic weight gain in SMI, highlighting a lack of research for those with dual diagnosis (SMI-LD).

The aim is to understand what works, for whom, and in what circumstances to manage antipsychotic weight gain non-pharmacologically in people with SMI-LD. The research plan is structured into three work packages: WP1 involves a realist review of academic and grey literature to develop initial programme theories; WP2 conducts a realist evaluation using semi-structured interviews with people with dual diagnosis, clinicians, and family carers to refine guidance for policy makers and clinicians; WP3 focuses on impact, combining findings and disseminating results through academic publications, conferences, and engagement with policymakers.

The position is based at Aston University's College of Health and Life Sciences, located in Birmingham, UK. Candidates must reside within reasonable distance of the campus and are expected to attend regularly. The project covers Home tuition fees; overseas applicants must pay the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees (£17,712 for 2026/7). There are associated consumables costs, which should be discussed with the supervisor prior to application. Professor Ian Maidment ([email protected]) is the primary contact for project-specific queries.

Applicants should have a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, or a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree and a Merit or Distinction in a relevant Masters degree. Overseas qualifications are considered if equivalent. Required documents include English language transcripts and certificates for all higher education degrees, a research statement, personal statement, CV, two academic references (at least one from the most recent university), evidence of English language proficiency, and a copy of the passport. Applications missing any documents will be automatically rejected. Interviews are conducted online via Microsoft Teams.

To apply, use the online application link and select 'Research - Health Sciences' from the form options. Contact the supervisor to discuss consumables costs before applying and upload confirmation of this discussion. For further information about the application process, contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected].

This project offers an opportunity to contribute to impactful research addressing a critical gap in the management of antipsychotic weight gain for people with SMI-LD dual diagnosis, with the potential to influence health policy and clinical practice.