REAL Supply Research Unit PhD Studentships in Health Economics University of York in United Kingdom

[Full academic fees for 2026/27 entry at UK or international rates plus a maintenance stipend for 3 years at UKRI rates (£20,780 for 2025/26). Two studentships available. Awards do not support part-time study.]

The University of York is offering two fully funded PhD studentships within the REAL Supply Research Unit, based at the Centre for Health Economics (CHE). These studentships are designed for exceptional candidates interested in advancing research in health economics and supporting long-term decision making in health and social care. The REAL Supply Research Unit, part of the Health Foundation’s REAL Centre, conducts independent economic research to inform policy and strategic planning for the NHS and social care systems. Over the next five years, the Unit will deliver a diverse portfolio of research projects aimed at building a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient health and care system.

Successful applicants will join one of the largest collectives of academic health and social care economists in the UK, working on research that directly informs policy and supports better decision-making. The studentships cover a range of topics, including recruitment into healthcare training, workforce pay and conditions, international migration, skill-mix, technology diffusion, automation, market power in dental and social care, and incentives for long-term investment. Supervision will be provided by Professor Nils Gutacker or Professor Susan Griffin, depending on the chosen research topic, and students will be registered through the Department of Economics and Related Studies for a PhD in Health Economics.

CHE offers an internationally renowned research environment, attracting top students and visitors from around the world. The University of York is recognized for its research excellence and teaching quality, and CHE holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, reflecting its commitment to equality, inclusion, and career development. The department fosters a supportive and family-friendly work culture, ensuring fair policies and equal opportunities for all staff and students.

Funding for these studentships includes full academic fees for the 2026/27 entry at UK or international rates, plus a maintenance stipend for three years at UKRI rates (£20,780 for 2025/26). Two awards are available, and part-time study arrangements are not supported.

Eligibility criteria require applicants to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with a 2:1 or higher and a Master’s degree (or be about to complete) in Health Economics, Economics, or a closely related discipline, with a high average mark (60% or above, including at least 60% in the dissertation component). Applicants must also meet the English language requirement of IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component. Strong quantitative and analytical skills are essential.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, either in person or via Zoom, where they will present their proposed project, including relevant literature, potential data sources, applicable methods, and the skills they bring to their doctoral research. The interview date will be confirmed after shortlisting.

To apply, candidates should submit an online application via the University of York portal for the PhD in Health Economics, including a research proposal aligned with one of the eight topic areas. For further information, visit the programme information page or contact the supervisors directly.