Research in the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education

Join a thriving research community in health, science, social care and education. Explore groundbreaking topics with expert supervision.

About research

Our research spans health, science, social care and education, tackling real challenges and delivering meaningful results that inspire change. Learn more about research degrees, research centres and groups within the Faculty.

Research degrees in the Faculty

We offer flexible pathways for research degrees:

MSc by Research
MPhil
PhD
Education PhD

All degree options are available full-time and part-time across our research centres and subject areas, allowing you to tailor your research to your interests. As a research student you can expect:

An inspiring, interdisciplinary research environment
Access to cutting-edge facilities
A supportive student community
Opportunities to collaborate with industry partners

Self-funded PhD project ideas include:

Life sciences, (Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Cancer Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Sport and Exercise Physiology, Forensic Science, Nutrition, Public Health, Cell Biology and Parasitology)
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacology
Chemistry (Inorganic, Organic, Physical, Analytical and Environmental
Polymers and Materials Science (polymer synthesis and properties, specialised materials such as conducting or thermoresponsive polymers, materials for medical devices)
(Applied) Health Service Research to improve health outcomes, systems and care
Health/Social Care and Policy Research
Clinical Decision Making
Intellectual Disability and End of Life Care; Nursing (e.g. work force development)
Social Work and Social Care
Healthcare Education
Midwifery (e.g. women’s health, maternal disparities, critical midwifery studies, education, professional identity and development)
Health Inequalities and EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion)
Public Health; Education (e.g. AI and pedagogy, SEND, giftedness).

You can view a selection of self-funded project ideas on FindAPhD.com. If you are interested in one of these projects, please contact the supervisor to discuss it. You will need to submit a full project proposal and timeline with your online application.

Applying for a research degree in the Faculty

Application deadline

Applications are accepted at any time of year, but there are three entry points: October, January and March.

We aim to process applications as quickly as possible, but it can take a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks for all the paperwork to be in order. Only when all the required paperwork (including two references) has been received can it be submitted for Faculty approval. Once an application has been approved, the applicant is invited to interview. An offer can only be made after an applicant has had a successful interview.

How to apply: what you will need

To be considered for a research degree, you must have an upper second or first class honours degree in a subject relevant to your proposed area of study. A masters degree in a subject relevant to your proposed area of study is not essential but is advantageous.

We will need the following items from you. Please ensure you have all documentation ready before you apply. It is essential you have the support of an academic prepared to supervise you before applying, as you are required to put their name on the application form.

How to prepare a research proposal

A crucial part of a research application is the research proposal. Here is some guidance on writing a research proposal, including suggestions on what to include and what to avoid.

Normally a proposal should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words. It should include the following.