EmpowerHER Health: Co-creating an AI-driven connected health system to support movement and wellbeing through preconception, pregnancy and postpartum

Summary

The reproductive years present profound health challenges, and preconception and pregnancy health and physical activity levels can have impacts upon the risk of non-communicable disease, musculoskeletal conditions and anxiety and depression.

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to work at the cutting edge of maternal health, digital innovation, and connected technologies.

The proposed project will co-develop the content and design framework for an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital health system to support women’s movement, physical activity, nutrition, and wellbeing across preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum hence reducing disease burden across these life stages and the life course.

The project will use co-creation and participatory design approaches, working closely with women, healthcare professionals, and multidisciplinary experts to ensure the system is inclusive, accessible, and grounded in real-world needs.

The research will explore women’s preferences, behaviours, and barriers to engagement with digital health tools, identifying key features that promote empowerment, self-management, and sustained lifestyle change.

This PhD will not focus on software development itself, but on the co-creation of content and behavioural frameworks to inform a future connected health application, developed through parallel funding.

The project sits at the intersection of Life and Health Sciences and Software/Cyber innovation, aligning with Northern Ireland’s strategic goals for Med-Tech, digital and connected health with supporting software.

This research draws upon expertise in exercise science, health psychology, digital health innovation and maternal health. This PhD project would suit a graduate from Sport and Exercise Sciences, Maternal Health, Public Health, Psychology, Human Biology or a related area.

Applicants should have good knowledge of behaviour change theories and an understanding of participatory research. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively through oral and written means is essential.

The successful applicant will gain skills in qualitative and mixed-methods research, stakeholder engagement, behaviour change theory, and digital health design.

The project offers opportunities to collaborate with clinical and industry partners, contribute to impactful publications, and shape the next generation of digital health innovation aimed at improving maternal wellbeing and reducing long-term disease risk for women and their families.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.