Fully Funded PhD Studentship Preferences for Falls Prevention Technologies in Residential Social Care Settings
Fully FundedLeeds, United Kingdomphd· £21,805 per year (UKRI rate) + up to £8,000 for research activities
Project Overview
This PhD will explore how stakeholders value technologies designed to reduce falls in residential social care settings as part of the NIHR-funded SENSITISE project.
Basic Information - Project Title: Preferences for Falls Prevention Technologies in Residential Social Care Settings - Host Institution: University of Leeds - School/Faculty: School of Medicine - Disciplines: Medicine, Health Economics, Social Care - Study Level: PhD - Application Deadline: 30 September 2026 at 05:00 UTC+5 - Funding Type: Fully Funded - Eligibility: UK Only -
This PhD is part of the NIHR-funded SENSITISE project at the University of Leeds. It will explore how stakeholders (residents, care staff, providers, commissioners, and policymakers) value technologies designed to reduce falls in residential social care settings.
Research Context
Falls are a major cause of morbidity, loss of independence, and healthcare use among older adults in care homes. Although falls prevention is well studied, little is known about how different stakeholders value various technologies and care models. Technologies developed without considering user preferences often fail in practice due to poor uptake or inappropriate implementation.
What You Will Do
You will use stated preference methods, such as a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE), to investigate preferences for fall-prevention technologies and service models. The project also offers scope to examine how preferences differ by deprivation, geography, cognitive impairment, or provider type, and how preference evidence can inform commissioning and decision-making.
Key Research Aims
- Identify stakeholder preferences for fall-prevention technologies.
- Translate preference evidence into actionable guidance for health and social care commissioners.
Supervisor Profile
Supervisor information is not specified in the provided files. Please check the University of Leeds School of Medicine website for potential supervisors.
Eligibility Requirements
- Academic Background: First-class or 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in health economics, social policy, psychology, or a related field.
- English Language: IELTS required (minimum score not specified; typically 6.5 overall).
- Nationality: UK only.
Funding Details
- Funding Type: Fully funded PhD studentship.
- Stipend: £21,805 per year (UKRI rate) + up to £8,000 for research activities.
- Duration: 3.5 years (full-time).
- Fees: Full academic fees covered.
How to Apply
Apply online via the University of Leeds PhD application portal. Required documents typically include: CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal (if required), and proof of English proficiency.
