Funded PhD: Sleep, Mental Health, and Wellbeing Pathways in Climate-Related Events (Graduate Teaching Assistantship)

The University of Bristol is offering a funded PhD opportunity focused on the pathways linking climate-related disruption to sleep, psychological functioning, and wellbeing. This project utilizes mixed-methods to strengthen the evidence base on mental health responses to climate change, aiming to uncover how environmental disruptions impact sleep and overall psychological health. Successful candidates will join the School of Psychological Science as Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs), engaging in world-leading research while also delivering a specified portfolio of teaching within the MSc in Mental Health Science. This dual role provides a unique chance to develop both research and teaching skills at a top 100 global university, enhancing future employability and professional development. The GTA Scholarship is highly competitive and supports recipients holistically, offering school-specific training and centrally-organized support through the Bristol Doctoral College. The scholarship covers four years of research degree tuition fees at the Home/EU rate, £1000 per year in research support costs, a doctoral research stipend, and a part-time teaching salary. The current combined stipend and teaching salary total £22,841 per year (updated annually). International candidates, including EU students, are fully funded but must cover their own visa, healthcare surcharge, and relocation costs. Eligibility requirements include holding (or expecting to hold) a First Class or good Upper Second Class Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree (Distinction/Merit) in a relevant discipline considered desirable. Selection is based on academic excellence, research potential, and teaching experience or potential, matched to teaching needs determined via interview. Non-UK applicants must meet minimum English language requirements and provide proof of the right to work in the UK. Tier 4 Visa holders are subject to a 20-hour weekly work limit, including GTA teaching. Applicants should submit their application via the University of Bristol portal, selecting ‘Psychology (PhD)’ and applying for a September 2026 start. A recent writing sample (publication or dissertation) must be uploaded as part of the application. For project-related queries, contact Prof M Banissy at [email protected]. The application deadline is January 31, 2026. This position is ideal for candidates interested in health psychology, climate change impacts, and mental health research, who also wish to gain valuable teaching experience in a supportive academic environment.