Sheffield Hallam University PhD Scholarship

Sheffield Hallam University invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship in the School of Sport and Physical Activity, commencing October 2026. The project, 'Embedding Physical Activity into Family Hubs: A Co-Designed Community Intervention for Postpartum Women,' aims to address the sharp decline in physical activity among women after childbirth, which contributes to widening health inequalities. The research will focus on developing, implementing, and evaluating a community-based physical activity intervention within Family Hubs—integrated support centers for families with young children.

As a doctoral researcher, you will join a vibrant community of approximately 65 PhD students, supported by a comprehensive training programme and based at the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC), a world-leading hub for health innovation. The project is supervised by Dr Marlize De Vivo (CEO and Co-Founder of the Active Pregnancy Foundation), Dr Catherine Homer (Associate Professor with extensive public health experience), and Dr Elysa Ioannou (NIHR-funded researcher and early career fellow in systems thinking).

The research will use participatory and co-design methods, working collaboratively with postpartum women, practitioners, and community stakeholders to tailor and deliver a physical activity offer within a Family Hub. Mixed-methods evaluation will assess feasibility, acceptability, barriers, facilitators, and mechanisms of impact, with a strong focus on real-world outcomes and applied outputs. The project aligns with national priorities to shift care from hospitals into communities and reduce health inequalities.

Eligibility requirements include a 1st class or 2:1 degree in Sport Science, Data Science, Biomedical Science, Engineering, or related fields. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to apply. Quantitative skills are desirable, and training in specialist methods will be provided. International applicants must meet the tuition fee gap (£13,362/year) and provide IELTS 7 (with at least 6.5 in all areas, taken within the last two years) or equivalent, unless exempt. Applications from diverse groups, including LGBTQIA+, BAME, and disabled communities, are particularly encouraged.

The scholarship covers Home PhD fees and provides a stipend at the Living Wage Foundation rate (£22,152 for 2025/26, increasing annually). International students must cover the fee gap themselves, as no additional funding is available. The scholarship also includes up to 180 hours per academic year of research support activities within the school.

To apply, submit the online application form, including the project title in your Personal Statement. Upload a 1,500-word research proposal addressing this specific project, two academic references, your highest degree certificate, and passport. International applicants must also submit IELTS results and a statement confirming their ability to pay the tuition fee gap. The application deadline is 17 June 2026, 12 noon UK time. Interviews will be held the week commencing 6 July 2026.

For informal enquiries, contact Dr Elysa Ioannou at [email protected]. Sheffield offers an outstanding environment for research and quality of life, with access to the Peak District National Park and a vibrant science and healthcare ecosystem.