At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate ankle sprain risk factors and recovery challenges through innovative research methods.
- Company: Join a leading academic team at the School of Medicine in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable research experience and contribute to impactful studies in sports science.
- Other info: Self-funded PhD opportunity starting October 2026, with guidance from experienced supervisors.
- Why this job: Make a difference in understanding ankle injuries and improve recovery for athletes and active individuals.
- Qualifications: Must have a 2:1 degree in a relevant field; a Master's is preferred.
Area: Injury, Recovery and Inflammation
Location: UK
Other Closing Date: Monday 06 July 2026
Reference: MED2054
Principal Supervisors:
- Dr Thomas Bestwick‑Stevenson (School of Medicine), Teaching Associate – thomas.bestwick-stevenson@nottingham.ac.uk
- Professor Kimberley Edwards (School of Medicine, Professor of Sport, Exercise, and Nutrition Education) – kimberley.edwards@nottingham.ac.uk
Programme Description:
The overall theme of this PhD programme is to examine risk factors of suffering an ankle sprain and/or recovering poorly from the injury. Ankle sprains are common injuries in both the general population and among physically active individuals, often resulting in poor recovery, reinjury, lifestyle limitation, and financial burden. While substantial research exists on ligament injuries, little is known about risk factors for both injury occurrence and poor recovery. This PhD will explore factors related to suffering and/or recovering from ankle sprains, building on the research team's current studies such as the significant ankle ligament injury study.
PhD Project Overview:
The project may employ various methods to address different aspects of the topic, depending on the student's interests, supervisory guidance, and emerging findings during the research.
Funding and Self‑funding Requirement:
This project is not funded; candidates must self‑fund the PhD.
Qualifications:
- At least a 2:1 in a relevant degree (e.g., Sport Science, Medicine, Rehabilitation, Public Health, etc.)
- Ideally a relevant Master’s degree (e.g., Sport Science, Medicine, Rehabilitation, Public Health, etc.)
Contact and Application:
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Thomas Bestwick‑Stevenson, thomas.bestwick-stevenson@nottingham.ac.uk.
PhD Start Date: 1st October 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Self-funded PhD: Risk factors of ankle sprains and/or poor recovery from ankle sprain injuries in Nottingham employer: University Of Nottingham
As a leading institution in the field of medicine and sports science, we offer an enriching environment for PhD candidates to explore critical health issues such as ankle sprains and recovery. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and personal growth, providing access to expert supervision and cutting-edge research opportunities in the UK. With a commitment to academic excellence and a supportive community, we empower our students to make meaningful contributions to the field while developing their professional skills.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Self-funded PhD: Risk factors of ankle sprains and/or poor recovery from ankle sprain injuries in Nottingham
✨Get Involved in Local Health Initiatives
Jump into local health initiatives or volunteer at community health events. This kind of hands-on experience not only looks fab on your CV but also gets you in touch with industry professionals who might point you in the direction of trainee opportunities.
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Utilise your university's career services; they often have connections to health sciences organisations that offer trainee positions. Don't be shy—set up a meeting to chat about your interests; they can provide tailored advice and possibly even direct introductions.
✨Engage with Professional Bodies
Join professional health sciences bodies like the Institute of Health Services Management. They often provide networking events, seminars, and newsletters listing trainee roles that aren’t widely advertised. It’s a great way to get a foot in the door.
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We think you need these skills to ace Self-funded PhD: Risk factors of ankle sprains and/or poor recovery from ankle sprain injuries in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Coursework:When you're putting together your CV, make sure to include any relevant health sciences courses you've taken. This can show that you're not just interested in the field, but that you've got the academic background to back it up. Also, don’t forget to mention any projects or assignments that link to health administration.
Showcase Your Motivation and Learning Potential:In your cover letter, let us know why you want this trainee position specifically at University Of Nottingham. Share what draws you to health sciences administration and how you see this opportunity helping you grow. We’re looking for passion and a willingness to learn, so don’t hold back!
Include Relevant Experience:If you have any work experience, even if it's voluntary or part-time, make sure it finds a spot on your CV. Anything related to healthcare settings, administration, or customer service can demonstrate your ability to thrive in this field. We value real-world experience!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate professionalism in your application, don’t forget to inject a bit of your personality too! Use your cover letter to tell us who you are beyond your qualifications. This is your chance to connect on a human level with us at University Of Nottingham.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Show Your Passion for Health Sciences
Since this is a trainee position within health sciences administration, we want to show how genuinely enthusiastic you are about the field. Take some time to brush up on current trends, policies, or challenges in health administration. Being able to discuss these topics will really set you apart and show that you're not just looking for any job, but that you have a specific interest in this sector.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Interviews for trainee roles often involve behavioural questions to gauge how you handle various situations. Think of examples from past experiences—like teamwork, problem-solving, or communication—in contexts relevant to health administration. Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help structure your responses effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Health Administration Tools
While this is a trainee role, it's beneficial to have a basic understanding of the tools and software commonly used in health sciences administration, like Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems. Mentioning any experience or familiarity with these tools during your interview could demonstrate your readiness to jump in and learn more quickly.
✨Express Your Learning Goals
This trainee role is all about growth! Think about what specific skills or knowledge you aim to gain from University Of Nottingham. During the interview, share your learning goals and ask how they support their trainees in developing professionally. This shows you're proactive and eager to make the most of this opportunity.
