Joy Duxbury

The University of Cumbria is advertising three fully funded Masters of Research (MRes) studentships in applied mental health research, starting in September 2026. The project is part of a wider NIHR-funded programme focused on addressing mental health challenges in underserved rural and coastal communities across Cumbria. Applicants are invited to propose research in one of three priority areas: place-based blue and green spaces and their impact on mental health and wellbeing, mental health crisis, or mental health, learning disabilities and autism. The studentships are designed for candidates interested in inclusive, co-produced research and will be supported by an interdisciplinary team of academics, stakeholders, and people with lived and living experience. Supervision is listed with Professor Joy Duxbury and Professor Michelle Baybutt, with additional co-supervisors appointed to match the proposal and methodology. The programme is hosted by the University of Cumbria and linked to NIHR partners including the NIHR School for Public Health Research, NIHR Cumberland Health Determinants Research Collaboration, and NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) North East and North Cumbria. Eligibility includes a 1st or 2:1 Honours degree, or an equivalent degree with an independent research project, from a recognised UK university or comparable overseas university. Applicants should show a strong interest in applied mental health research and/or mental health inequalities, have experience with at least one relevant research method, and demonstrate commitment to inclusive, co-produced research. Desirable experience includes mental health settings, community engagement, and familiarity with NVivo or SPSS. The studentships are UK applicants only and fund Home tuition fees only. The application deadline is midnight on Sunday 5 July 2026, with shortlisted candidates interviewed in July and the proposed start date in the week commencing 21 September 2026. To apply, use the online application form via the Apply Now button, and submit a CV, letter of motivation, and a research proposal of up to 4 pages. Questions about the application can be sent to Research Student Admissions at [email protected], and informal enquiries to Professor Michelle Baybutt at [email protected].