PhD Research Project: Integrating physical activity into chronic disease management pathways

There is increasing awareness of the associations between physical activity, physical fitness and the prevention and management of wide range of clinical conditions ranging from mental health condition (depression and anxiety; dementia), cancers and cardiovascular conditions (coronary heart disease, stroke) to obesity and musculoskeletal conditions. Whilst the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of physical activity and exercise-related interventions in the prevention and management of chronic disease is very widely recognised, there is a substantial gap in understanding how best to ensure that all patients can benefit from the inclusion of physical activity in clinical management (and self-management) of their condition.

This project would be based in community venues where, as part of the National Centre for Sport & Exercise Medicine in Sheffield, disease management is delivered in leisure centres which also provide facilities for sport and physical activity. The project would recruit both clinicians and patients and collect qualitative interview data, and longitudinal clinical data, to explore the barriers and facilitators, and the potential impact on clinical outcomes, of integrating physical activity (including use of leisure facilities) into routine clinical management.

How to apply

Please apply through our online postgraduate application system including the Scholarship Application section where you need to tick the ’University Scholarships’ box. The form will ask you to summarise your research proposal in less than 800 words. If you are unsure about what to put in this section, please contact your prospective supervisor. Please name your supervisor and select their department (ScHARR) through the online form.

Deadline: 5pm 1st February 2017

Funding Notes

Candidates must have Merit or Distinction in a relevant Master's degree or equivalent

The Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Doctoral Academy Scholarships cover Home/EU fee and RCUK rate stipend for three years. Overseas students may apply but will need to fund the difference between the Home and Overseas fee from another source.

Proposed start date: October 2017