PhD Studentship: Sleep and Circadian Rhythms in a High Risk Psychiatric Population: Exploring Mechanisms and Intervention

Applications are invited for a PhD (via MPhil) studentship in the School of Psychology and Humanities. The studentship is funded through the school and be part of the UCLan Doctoral Training Centre for Industry Collaboration and is tenable for up to 3.5 years full time [subject to satisfactory progress].  Both Home and EU/International Applicants may apply but EU/International Applicants will be required to pay the difference in tuition fees between the UK and EU/International fee rates. The studentship will provide successful applicants with an annual stipend in line with UKRI rates (2024/25 rate £19237 per year) subject to satisfactory progress.

It is expected the successful applicant will commence September 2024. 

Project Description:

Disturbances in sleep and circadian rhythm (SCRD) are bidirectionally linked with a variety of mental disorders, with compelling evidence that SCRD is a causal component and comprised of modifiable risk factors. Despite research advances, the mechanisms linking SCRD to causes and mental health symptoms remain poorly understood. This is particularly germane in severe mental illness (i.e., psychosis) and there are increased levels of externalised behaviours (i.e., self-harm, suicide, aggression). Research has not yet explored links between SCRD and psychosis in high-risk forensic mental health populations. The potential for positive impact on wellbeing, aggression reduction and symptom reduction is particularly amplified in such a population. Further elucidation of the potential mechanisms that link sleep, circadian rhythm and psychosis in a secure forensic psychiatric population is both timely and necessary.

The multi-faceted project will: assess the nature and prevalence of SCRD in a forensic mental health population; ascertain the feasibility of utilising objective SCRD measures with a forensic inpatient sample alongside subjective report; illuminate potential links between SCRD, harmful externalising behaviours and mental health; explore the potential affective and cognitive mechanisms underpinning these associations. Ultimately, the project will implement, and assess the impact of, interventions aimed at treatment for SCRD that may include CBT for insomnia and Dream Completion Technique, with other considerations.

The student will be physically based at Ashworth Hospital (a high-secure NHS forensic mental health inpatient unit near Liverpool), as well as being part of a stimulating university environment at UCLan. The setting will provide unsurpassed clinical and academic support and expertise, a robust research environment and thriving research student community, which together will cultivate research talent and maximise opportunities for professional development.

Further information

Informal project related enquiries about the post can be made to Professor Jane L. Ireland (JLIreland1@uclan.ac.uk)

For the full details go to: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/studentships

Applications should be completed on our online application system, selecting the following options:

• Type of Study - Research Degree (Postgraduate)
• Course - Master of Philosophy/Doctor of Philosophy
• Campus - Preston Campus
• Mode of Study - Full Time

Please quote the studentship reference number DTC12-22-65 on the online application form.

Closing Date: 12^th April 2024

Proposed Interview Date: 10^th May 2024

Expected Start Date: 23^rd September 2024

CURRENT UCLAN RESEARCH STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THIS RESEARCH STUDENTSHIP

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