PhD Studentship: Identifying and developing approaches for understanding the costs and benefits of

Applications are invited for a 3-year fully-funded PhD Studentship starting March / April 2018.

This project aims to identify approaches for evaluating the cost-effectiveness of public health interventions, through the case study of sexual health. In particular, the aim is to develop methods to create economic evidence that is meaningful for local decision-makers.

The research will aim to:

1. Critically appraise the economic evidence used to inform decision making in relation to interventions in sexual health / public health;
2. Identify decision-maker (commissioner, manager, clinician/ practitioner) priorities for the development of economic evidence for sexual health interventions;
3. Develop and pilot methods for collecting cost and outcome data to inform local decision-makers, as an exemplar. This will involve using the Birmingham based Umbrella sexual health system or other relevant studies.

Person Specification

Applicants should have a strong background in health economics or health services research. They should have a commitment to health economics / health services research and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject.

Shortlisted applicants will be required to attend an interview on 9th February 2018. This can be conducted face –to –face, by telephone or via skype.

Funding Notes

This PhD is fully funded by University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. Funding includes tuition fees at the home/ EU student rate and a full stipend in line with RCUK rates, both for 3 years.

The studentship is open to International students, but please note that tuition fees are only funded at the home/ EU student rate.