David Meads

Fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds on patient and provider preferences for falls prevention technologies in residential social care settings . This project sits within health economics , social care economics , ageing , dementia , and stated preference methods , including Discrete Choice Experiments (DCEs) . The research will examine how technologies designed to reduce falls in care homes and residential social care are valued by different stakeholders, with a focus on implementation, decision-making, and real-world uptake. The studentship is linked to the SENSITISE project and is supervised by John O’Dwyer , David Meads , and Carl Thompson at the University of Leeds. The student will be based primarily in the Academic Unit of Health Economics and work across the School of Medicine and School of Healthcare in an interdisciplinary environment. Funding includes UK tuition fees , a UKRI-rate stipend (stated as £20,780 in 2025/26), and additional research support of up to £8,000 . The award is for a UK candidate only . Entry requirements include a 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent in a quantitatively oriented subject such as economics, statistics, mathematics, operational research, or epidemiology. A relevant master’s degree is desirable but not essential. Applicants should also have strong communication skills, independence, and an interest in quantitative and qualitative research methods. The English language requirement listed is IELTS 7.0 overall with 6.5 in each component or equivalent. The deadline is 17 July 2026 , with a planned start date of 1 October 2026 . To apply, complete the online form and upload a statement, CV, transcripts, degree certificate, and English language evidence if needed. Be sure to select PhD in Medicine , include the project title, name the supervisors, and state that you are applying for an NIHR SSCR Scholarship .