Transforming Lives PhD Scholarship

Sheffield Hallam University invites applications for the Transforming Lives PhD Scholarship, focusing on the validation of 3D child body composition measurement. This opportunity is based within the School of Sport and Physical Activity and commences on 1 October 2026. The scholarship is fully funded for Home students, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend at the Living Wage Foundation rate (£22,152 for 2025/26, with annual increases). International applicants are welcome, but must cover the difference between Home and International tuition fees (approx. £13,362/year), as no additional funding is available for this gap.

The research will be conducted at the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC), a world-leading hub for health innovation, and within the Morphology Research Team. The project aims to address the scientific challenge of validating 3D surface imaging for child body composition, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and equity across age, body shape, sex, and ethnicity. You will work with a rich longitudinal dataset combining 3D/4D surface scans, anthropometry, MRI/DXA, manual measurements, and BIA. The research goes beyond simple correlations, involving advanced agreement and error-modelling analyses, identification of systematic bias, and development of practical correction approaches for researchers, clinicians, and MedTech developers.

Sheffield Hallam University is renowned for applied health and wellbeing research, with 88% of its research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the 2021 REF. The doctoral community is vibrant, with around 65 researchers supported by a comprehensive training programme. The AWRC offers a dynamic environment for collaboration, innovation, and career development, positioning graduates for competitive postdoctoral fellowships and future UKRI/NHS research roles.

Applicants must hold a 1st class or 2:1 degree in Sport Science, Biomedical Science, Data Science, Medical Physics, Engineering, or a related field. Quantitative skills are desirable, but full technical training will be provided in 3D imaging, R/Python, agreement modelling, and calibration methods. The university values curiosity, critical thinking, attention to detail, motivation, and a commitment to meaningful research. Flexible working hours can be discussed, and applications from diverse groups (LGBTQIA+, BAME, disabled) are particularly encouraged.

International applicants must meet the English language requirement: IELTS 7 (with at least 6.5 in all test areas) or equivalent, taken within the last two years, unless exempt by UKVI. This qualification must be submitted as part of the application. For queries, contact [email protected].

To apply, complete the online application form and upload a 1,500-word research proposal addressing this specific project, two academic references, highest degree certificate, passport copy, and IELTS results (if applicable). Add the project title in the Personal Statement field and ensure all attachments are uploaded before submission. The application deadline is 18 May 2026 (12 noon UK time). Interviews will be held the week commencing 15 June 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, and alternative interview slots cannot be offered.

For informal enquiries, contact Dr Alice Bullas ([email protected]). For more information about the research environment, visit the Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre and the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre.