Organisation/Company Swansea University Department Central Research Field Medical sciences » Health sciences Mathematics » Statistics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 6 Dec 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/London) Country United Kingdom Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
Key Information
Open to: UK and international applicants
Funding Providers: ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS)
Subject Area: Health, Wellbeing and Data Science
Project Start Dates:October 2027 **
**In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the discretion of the University and/or the relevant funding body, a deferral of offer may be granted to the next available enrolment period. Such deferral will typically not exceed a duration of three calendar months from the originally stipulated commencement date. Please note that only one deferral may be considered, and any such deferral is not guaranteed.
This studentship is an ‘open’ award. Applicants must approach a potential supervisor prior to submitting an application. This is to confirm that there is appropriate supervisory capacity within the University and to discuss their draft application of which the supervisor must complete a section. Information on the research interests of our staff can be found on the Swansea University webpages. Short descriptions of each accredited pathway are available on the ESRC WGSSS website. The Swansea-based representative for the pathway, Dr Arron Lacey, a.s.lacey@swansea.ac.uk might be able to advise you.
Aligned programme of study: Health and Well-being and Data Science pathway, PhD WGSSS DTP
Mode of study: Full or part-time study is possible. Please note that full-time ESRC WGSSS studentship award holders cannot hold either a full-time job, permanent part-time job or temporary role for an extended period, during the period of their award. Part-time ESRC WGSSS studentship award holders cannot hold a full-time job.
Place of study:
- Swansea University (Singleton Campus)
- Swansea University (Bay Campus)
The pathway combines observational, descriptive, and trials-based methods with large population-scale datasets to provide evidence on societies most pressing health challenges. Research informs evidence-based policy making to support people to make healthy lifestyle choices and/or to live better with illness and disability. More specifically, it examines the built and social environment and the impact that these have on multiple health and/or social outcomes. For example, a project may characterise the housing or school travel environment, and investigate the impact on injuries, mental health and educational outcomes; or shifting ageing and family-size demographics in relation to the epidemiology of chronic health conditions to address the pressing issue of the ‘care -gap’. Projects may use a range of methodologies, from observational to computational and population-level modelling. Such projects and associated methods are made possible through the linkage of administrative and health data, increasing demand for suitably qualified doctoral researchers capable of applying a mix of methods to complex social science problems.
This scoping must be undertaken before you submit your application.
English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here English Language Requirements - Swansea University.
Additional Information
The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees and an annual tax-free living stipend in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £21,805 for 2026/27).
Students also have access to a Research Training Support Grant.
Eligibility criteria
To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equal to an honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters from a UK academic research organisation. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.
The WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
If you have any questions regarding your academic or fee eligibility based on the above, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk with the web-link to the scholarship(s) you are interested in.
Selection process
Please see our website for more information.
Applications may besubmittedin Welsh and any applicationsubmittedin Welsh will be treated no less favourably than an applicationsubmittedin English. Please refer to the University’s Welsh Language Policy on Awarding Grants
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Health, Wellbeing and Data Science: ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) Health, Wellbeing and Data Science in Swansea employer: Swansea University
Swansea University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation within the School of Social Sciences. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on care-experienced children's educational outcomes in Wales. Located in a beautiful coastal city, the university provides a unique setting for personal and professional growth.
