At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore sustainability in healthcare tech and develop innovative frameworks for future decision-making.
- Company: Newcastle University, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: 100% home tuition fees covered and an annual stipend at UKRI rates.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with expert supervisors and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a sustainable future in medical technologies and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 2:1 honours degree in health sciences or related field; strong research skills required.
The predicted salary is between 19350 - 23650 £ per year.
Qualification Type: PhD
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Funding for: UK Students
Funding amount: Not Specified
Hours: Full Time
Placed On: 15th July 2026
Closes: 12th August 2026
Reference: PH067
100% of home tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rates (2026–27). This studentship is open to home fee paying applicants only.
Overview
Interested in shaping a more sustainable future for healthcare? This PhD will explore how environmental sustainability can be embedded in next-generation medical technologies using horizon scanning and foresight methods. The project will investigate how sustainability is currently applied in MedTech and identify emerging trends, risks, and opportunities. It will examine how stakeholders across policy, regulation, healthcare, and industry balance environmental, clinical, and economic priorities in innovation and adoption decisions. Through horizon scanning, evidence synthesis, and empirical research, the student will develop frameworks, methods, or tools to support anticipatory sustainability assessment and future-oriented decision-making in MedTech.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have (expect to achieve) at least a 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as health sciences, biomedical engineering, or related discipline. You should have strong research skills (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods) and an interest in sustainability, healthcare systems, and innovation processes, alongside an interest in horizon scanning and foresight. If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each sub-skill).
Number of awards: 1
Start date: 21st September 2026
Award duration: 3 year full-time
Sponsor: Newcastle University
Supervisors: Dr Katie Thomson, Newcastle University; Professor Gill Norman, Newcastle University; Professor Dawn Craig, Newcastle University
Contact Details
Dr. Katie Thomson Email: katie.thomson@newcastle.ac.uk
Dr. Gill Norman Email: gill.norman@newcastle.ac.uk
PhD Studentship: A Foresight and Horizon Scanning Approach to Environmental Sustainability in M[...] in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Emerging Scholars Council
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to research excellence and professional development, employees benefit from access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for growth in the field of implementation science. Located in a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and supportive community, Newcastle University provides a unique setting for meaningful and impactful work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: A Foresight and Horizon Scanning Approach to Environmental Sustainability in M[...] in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
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Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
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We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: A Foresight and Horizon Scanning Approach to Environmental Sustainability in M[...] in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at Emerging Scholars Council.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. Emerging Scholars Council will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of PhD Studentship: A Foresight and Horizon Scanning Approach to Environmental Sustainability in M[...] at Emerging Scholars Council. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Emerging Scholars Council
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at Emerging Scholars Council, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show Emerging Scholars Council that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
