PhD Study : Determinants of loneliness among family caregivers

Summary

Loneliness is increasingly recognised as a major public health concern with considerable impact on the health. This is a highly complex issue and there are a wide range of risk factors including experiencing mental problems or disabilities, bereavement, caring for a sick relative. There is a need for more research evidence to unpack these vulnerabilities, how loneliness might develop over time and how it might be addressed among different populations.

The Bamford Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing at Ulster University and the Institute of Public Health in Ireland are developing a research partnership to address loneliness. We seek a strong candidate with excellent quantitative and writing skills who is able to undertake research in this area. We particularly seek to investigate the issue of loneliness among older people andor those with caregiving responsibilities.  However, we are open to research on other groups, providing that a good case can be made by the applicant.

The PhD will cover the following:

*To undertake a systematic review of the literature on a specific area of loneliness.

*To appraise the level of stigma that is associated with loneliness.

*To explore and provide analysis and commentary on data sets that are relevant to understanding loneliness across the lifecycle e.g. ELSA, NICOLA, TILDA, Growing up in Ireland.

*To explore the risk factors for loneliness especially the linkages between loneliness and depression, association and disassociation

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
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

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.

• Masters at 70%
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings

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:

• Bamford Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the home/EU rate and a maintenance allowance of £14,777 per annum for three years.