PhD Studentship in Exploring Barriers to PGR Access and Progression for Black and Minoritised Ethnic Students: An Intersectional, Mixed‑methods Study with Codesigned Interventions

Award Summary

100% of home tuition fees paid and an annual stipend (living expenses) of £21,805 (2026-27 UKRI rate). Successful international candidates will be required to fund the difference between the home fees and international fees.

Overview

Are you passionate about educational equity, student experience, research culture, and social justice‑oriented research?

Background: Newcastle University’s Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and widening access and progression in research and doctoral education. We offer a 4-year fully funded PhD investigating support for Black and minoritised ethnic postgraduate research students (PGRs).

Aims: Barriers to progression into and through doctoral study-particularly relating to inclusion, wellbeing, culture, and supervision-affect many students. Using mixed-methods, this project examines structural and cultural drivers of disparities in inclusion and success, considering ethnicity and intersectional factors such as disability, socioeconomic background, gender identity, visa status, and caregiving responsibilities.

Environment: Working with PGRs, supervisors, and professional services this project will consider power dynamics, research culture, and hidden expectations influencing progression, authorship, and guidance. The expected outputs include guidance for inclusive supervision, recommendations for doctoral programmes, and sector‑relevant evidence to strengthen equitable research culture.

No prior research experience is required; full training will be provided, and the project will be tailored to the student’s strengths and interests.

Number Of Awards

1

Start Date

21.09.2026

Award Duration

4 Years

Application Closing Date

27.05.2026

Sponsor

Faculty of Medical Sciences - Newcastle University

Supervisors

Dr Catherine Meplan

Dr Emma Haagensen

Dr Richard Hetherington

Eligibility Criteria

You must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent, in a subject relating to psychology, or (bio)medical sciences, or sociology, or humanities, or other relevant disciplines. Further qualification such as an MRes is advantageous as would non-academic relevant experience.

• This award is available to home and international applicants. Successful international candidates will be required to make up the difference between home fees and international fees.
• English Language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with 5.5 or more in each sub-skill.

Skills: Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills are essential. Experience in EDI work and in qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research is desirable.

Your application must include a statement describing how your personal experience to this role and demonstrating your commitment to EDI, including relevant past or potential contributions and how your experiences have shaped your understanding of these issues.

How To Apply

You must apply through the University’s Application Portal via the 'Apply' button above: 

In ‘Course choice’ tab:

Type of Study - ‘Postgraduate Research’

Mode of Study - ‘Full Time’

Year of Entry - ‘2026’

Course code ‘8420F’

Research Area – Leave Blank

Press ‘Search’

Select ‘PhD Biosciences (FT)’ and save selection. 

Upload:

 A document or write into ‘Personal Statement’. Put code ‘BI103’ in ‘Studentship Reference’.  

When prompted for a research proposal, select ‘Write Proposal’. Type in the title of the research project from this advert. A research proposal is not required. 

A covering letter & CV, stating how your interests and experience relate to the project. 

Degree transcripts/certificates and, if English is not your first language, a copy of your English language qualification if completed must be uploaded. 

Contact Details

Dr Catherine Meplan

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