PhD: Dietetic Service Models for Obesity and Malnutrition: An NHS Mixed-Methods Analysis

This PhD project is open to applications from Home, EU and International candidates. Part time study may be possible, for Home applicants only. Applications to study this topic under a Masters by Research programme may also be considered and should be discussed with. Dr Francesa Tabacchi, ftabacchi@brookes.ac.uk. The minimum entry requirement for Masters by Research is a lower second-class UK honours degree or equivalent qualification.

All students must be able to meet the University’s requirements for a research degree, which is to be able to devote a minimum of 35 hours per week (full-time) or 15 hours per week (part-time) to the programme of research. The minimum entry requirement is a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree or equivalent qualification in psychology, nutrition science or related discipline. A Master’s degree is desirable but not essential. 

Non-UK applicants must have an IELTS Academic test certificate with an overall score of 6.5-7.0 and no score below 6.0 issued in the last 2 years, For accepted alternatives please visit this webpage.

Bursary p.a.: Self-funded 

Fees and Bench fees: Candidates will need to fund course fees, and bench fees of £1500 per annum, for the duration of their studies. Fees information can be found here. For information on visas and associated costs please visit https://www.brookes.ac.uk/students/isat

Start Date: September 2026 

Project Title: Dietetic Service Models for Obesity and Malnutrition: An NHS Mixed-Methods Analysis

Director of Studies: Dr Shelly Coe

Supervisors: Dr Francesca Tabacchi, Dr Vasiliki Iatridi

Requirements: Nutrition/Dietetics degree and experience in research    

Project Description: This PhD offers the opportunity to investigate how dietetic services are structured and delivered within NHS pathways for those who are overweight/ obese and have malnutrition across three key specialties: oncology, geriatrics, and stroke. With rising pressures on NHS workforce capacity and growing demand for nutrition care, there is an urgent need to understand how managers, clinicians, and service users perceive the role of dietitians and how service models vary nationally. The project uses a mixed-methods approach to explore professional perspectives, map current service provision, and identify opportunities for service optimisation and integration. 

Project contact: ftabacchi@brookes.ac.uk

To arrange an informal conversation, please contact Dr Tabacchi including your CV and a one-page cover letter.

For enquiries about the application process and confirmation of the documents which are required, contact hlsapplications@brookes.ac.uk. Formal applications should be submitted on our online system via the above 'Apply' button. Please email hlsapplications@brookes.ac.uk to let us know that you have applied.

Interviews are expected to take place online during the week of 20 April 2026.

Please note that no funding is available for these projects. By applying you are indicating that you are able to support yourself during the period of the PhD. 

If you are a UK student you may be eligible to apply for a UK government loan to support your doctoral studies, please check your eligibility on the UK government website.

Visit the university webpage for more information about the Nutrition MPhil/PhD programme.

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