Strengthening Northern Ireland Through Falls Prevention: Using Population Data Science and Co-Design to Improve Health Outcomes and Support Healthy Ageing

Summary

Northern Ireland's population is ageing rapidly, with the number of people aged over 85 expected to more than double by 2043. Supporting people to live healthier, more independent lives for longer has therefore become a major policy priority. The Northern Ireland Executive's Programme for Government highlights the need to move beyond a healthcare system focused primarily on treating illness and towards one that prioritises prevention, healthy ageing, and the long-term sustainability of public services.

Falls are a major challenge within the context of healthcare. Indeed, falls are the leading cause of accidental death in Northern Ireland and can result in serious injury, reduced independence, poorer quality of life, and increased demand on health and social care services. Importantly, many falls are preventable.

One promising solution for prevention is muscle-strengthening physical activity, such as resistance training and bodyweight exercises. These activities can help maintain strength, balance and independence as people age, reducing the risk of falls and other negative health outcomes. Despite these benefits, participation remains low, particularly among older adults who stand to benefit most.

This PhD will address key priorities identified by the Department for the Economy in health data analytics, health outcomes research and implementation science. Using a mixed methods approach involving public health datasets and qualitative interviews, the project will identify who is most at risk of falls and examine participation in muscle-strengthening physical activity, particularly among adults aged 65 years and over.

The project will then work directly with members of the public, health professionals, community organisations and policymakers to co-design and test a pilot strength-based intervention, embedded within community assets and public spaces.

The overall aim is to produce new evidence and practical solutions that support healthy ageing, reduce falls risk, improve quality of life, and contribute to the transformation and sustainability of health and social care services in Northern Ireland.

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.

• 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
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

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
• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• 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)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

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, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.