SETU 2025 Presidents Scholarship Programme

The South East Technological University (SETU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship as part of the project "Men United: A football-based physical activity programme for men in Ireland following a prostate cancer diagnosis." This research addresses the challenge of low physical activity engagement among men post-prostate cancer treatment, despite the well-established benefits of exercise for improving fitness, reducing fatigue, and enhancing quality of life. The project aims to evaluate the translation, effectiveness, and scalability of the FC Prostate (Football is Medicine) programme within the Irish context.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Ireland, and while survival rates are high, many men experience long-term physical and psychological side effects. This PhD will use a multi-phase, mixed-methods approach to: (1) examine the feasibility, acceptability, and implementation of a community-based football intervention; (2) conduct a multi-site randomised controlled trial to assess its impact on physical and psychosocial health outcomes; and (3) evaluate its scalability and potential for national roll-out. The research is designed to inform national cancer survivorship strategies by providing an evidence-based, scalable model to support men in improving their health and wellbeing.

The successful candidate will gain expertise in implementation science, clinical trial design, mixed-methods research, and stakeholder engagement across healthcare and community settings. Collaboration with clinical partners, sporting organisations, and patient representatives will ensure strong real-world impact. The project is based in the Research Support Unit at SETU, Waterford, and supervised by Dr Patricia Sheehan, Professor MH Harrison, and Professor P Carroll.

Funding is provided through the SETU 2025 Presidents Scholarship Programme, offering a stipend of €22,500 per annum, tuition fees of €5,750 per annum, and research costs of €3,000 per annum for four years. The position is full-time and will commence following the interview process.

Applicants must hold at least a 2.1 honours degree in Exercise Science, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Health Psychology, or a related health or behavioural science field. A Master’s degree and professional accreditation as an Exercise for Health Specialist are desirable. Experience or interest in exercise prescription, delivery in clinical or community settings, and knowledge of behaviour change theories are advantageous. Essential skills include academic writing, verbal communication, critical analysis, organisational and time-management abilities, competence in data handling and analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, JASP), stakeholder engagement, and awareness of ethical considerations in research. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet SETU’s English language requirements and provide evidence in their application.

To apply, complete the online Application Form from the SETU website quoting the advert reference code SETU_2025_09_WSCH and upload all supporting documents. Applications must be submitted via this route. For informal queries, contact Dr Patricia Sheehan at [email protected]. For application and admission process queries, contact the Postgraduate Admissions Office at [email protected].

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 22 April 2026 at 4pm Irish time. SETU is an equal opportunities employer.