PhD Studentship: Developing Effective NHS Care Pathways For Adults With Learning Disabilities and/or Autism Who Encounter Criminal Justice: Effective Identification and Risk Assessment

The Intellectual Disabilities Research Institute (IDRIS) at the University of Birmingham, together with Reach-Out – the West Midlands provider collaborative for adult secure care, are pleased to offer funding for a psychology graduate who is interested in undertaking a PhD about the timely identification of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism who encounter criminal justice and require transfer to inpatient secure care.

The proposed project involves three studies: (1) Identification: several screening instruments for learning disabilities and/or autism that can be used within criminal justice settings will be tested, (2) Risk Assessment: several risk assessment tools to enable an accurate assessment of need will also be tested. Methods for the initial two studies include the use of factor analysis, classical test theory, and ROC curve analysis, and finally, (3) Barriers and Facilitators: a series of consultation exercises, incorporating qualitative research methods will be completed with stakeholders to develop an understanding of the barriers and facilitators to successful hospital admission or transfer.

The project will be supervised by Professor Peter Langdon.

The Studentship will provide an annual stipend of £20,780 (current rate for 2025-26), home PhD fees and access to research costs (e.g. to undertake fieldwork and attend conferences) for three and a half years from 29th September 2025. The studentship is offered as a 3.5-year award (commencing 29th September 2025) on a full-time basis. Applicants are expected to have a strong first degree (2:1) in psychology, or a related discipline, including demonstrable experience using quantitative and qualitative methods, and a Master’s degree in psychology, research methods, or a related discipline (or equivalent professional training).

The studentship covers:

• Full tuition fees at the Home rate (currently £5,006 per annum)
• An annual maintenance grant for 3.5 years of £20,780 (current ESRC rate) per year

International students are encouraged to apply and would receive the same studentship award as home students. However, the studentship would be used to cover the tuition fees and a small stipend.

Funding notes:

The Studentship will provide an annual stipend of £20,780 (current rate for 2025-26), home PhD fees and access to research costs (e.g. to undertake fieldwork and attend conferences) for three and a half years from 29th September 2025.

Closing Date: 30/05/2025

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