At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in family psychology and contribute to a major longitudinal study.
- Company: University of Sussex, renowned for its innovative research in psychology.
- Benefits: Generous stipend, full tuition coverage, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive research team and network with scholars across the UK.
- Why this job: Shape impactful research on family diversity while gaining teaching experience.
- Qualifications: First or high Upper Second Class degree in psychology or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 20780 - 20780 £ per year.
The University of Sussex School of Psychology is offering a funded doctoral research opportunity centred on family psychology. This studentship is embedded within a major longitudinal study of single mothers by choice and their children, following participants into adulthood and addressing pressing questions about parenting, development and family diversity.
The PhD project will involve both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, with scope for the successful candidate to shape aspects of the research in line with their theoretical interests and methodological strengths. Throughout the studentship, you will be part of an internationally recognised research team and benefit from structured supervisory support, professional development opportunities and integration into a UK-wide network of scholars and practitioners focused on family research.
The programme fosters an environment that supports advanced training, conference attendance, and engagement with real-world policy and practice implications of research on contemporary families. Education and teaching experience as a Doctoral Tutor is also possible, with options to gain formal teaching accreditation and paid teaching activities during the PhD.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or high Upper Second Class Honours undergraduate degree and/or a Master’s degree in psychology, neuroscience or a related discipline.
- A strong interest in developmental psychology and family diversity research is essential, and interdisciplinary interests that bridge developmental and applied social psychology are encouraged.
- The University values diversity, equality and inclusion and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.
- International applicants are eligible for the studentship but must relocate to Sussex and may not register as distance learners.
Require expertise, skills
- Successful applicants will bring a solid academic foundation in psychology or related fields, research interests aligned with family diversity and development, and the ability to contribute to both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the project.
- Enthusiasm for collaborative research, engagement with academic and professional networks, and skills in research design and analysis are important for success in this role.
Salary details
The studentship includes a UKRI-aligned annual stipend of £20,780 per year over three years, full coverage of UK or international tuition fees and an annual research/training allowance of £900. Additional paid teaching opportunities are available through the Doctoral Tutor scheme.
Application Deadline
Applications are due by 20 February 2026 at 23:30 (GMT).
PhD Studentship in Family Psychology – PhD Studentship in Brighton employer: RFCSR
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary research. As a Research Associate, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and the opportunity for professional growth through mentorship and publishing your findings, all while contributing to impactful advancements in biomedical engineering within a prestigious academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship in Family Psychology – PhD Studentship in Brighton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty members at the University of Sussex. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into family psychology topics. Show us your passion and knowledge about developmental psychology and family diversity – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet people in the field. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about the latest research trends!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our community.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship in Family Psychology – PhD Studentship in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for family psychology shine through! We want to see how your interests align with the research on family diversity and development. Make it personal and relatable!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! We recommend you tailor it to highlight your relevant experience in psychology, especially any work related to developmental psychology or family studies. This will help us see why you're a great fit for the studentship.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the one for this PhD studentship. Be sure to mention your academic achievements, research interests, and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and concise!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of family psychology and the longitudinal study mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with key theories and recent findings in developmental psychology, especially those related to single mothers by choice. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully applied these skills. Highlight any relevant coursework or research that aligns with the interdisciplinary focus of the studentship, as this will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Engage with the Team
Research the faculty members and current projects at the University of Sussex. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for collaborative research and how you envision contributing to the team. Mention any specific interests you have that align with their ongoing work, which can help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely invested in their research community.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the studentship, such as opportunities for professional development or how the research impacts real-world policy. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but are also keen on making a meaningful contribution to the field of family psychology.
