Student wellbeing: what does this really mean?

Applications are invited for this self-funded PhD project within the Centre for Healthcare Education Research and Innovation (CHERI) at the University of Aberdeen.

This Ph.D is a qualitative case study to explore what is important for students wellbeing and to investigate this through wider aspects and contexts, ie culture, societal, psychological, physical and educational. The student will be based in the internationally renowned Centre for Healthcare Education Research and Innovation (CHERI), University of Aberdeen, which has a worldwide reputation for medical education pedagogic research and capacity building in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore where some data collection will take place. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been increased emphasis on wellbeing and resilience. However, many of the implemented interventions are based on what the organisation thinks people want rather than informed by an evidence base. Recent work in CHERI has shown that this is true for doctors who wish to be heard, valued and supported rather than being sent on mandatory wellbeing courses and training. However, there is little research on well-being of medical students but what there is hints at the same patterns. For example, medical students who attend institution-organised wellness programmes do not have better wellbeing compared to those who do not attend. The factors which seem to make a difference are simple (e.g., free time, student-initiated activities). This Ph.D. will investigate student’s wellbeing needs, to inform organisational interventions to support medical student wellbeing wants and needs. This is a two-site study, Aberdeen, UK, and Singapore, two very different contexts in terms of culture, societal expectations and norms, the organisation of medical education and training, educational expectations, understandings of wellbeing, etc. These contrasting cases will provide insight into the issue of student wellbeing and ultimately inform the development of global policy, practice and future research on this topic. There will be multiple forms of data collection including document analysis, semi structured interviews, and data collection possibly using visual data  Relevant training will be provided in critical analysis, scientific writing, qualitative research methods supported by an experienced medical education team of supervisors.  The student would also actively participate in activities based in the University that would benefit their career, e.g., journals clubs, teaching. In addition, the student will be supported to attend relevant conferences and networking events. The supervisory team have extensive experience in this area and will provide all necessary support including regular meetings, feedback on progress and opportunities to develop the student’s career in medical education. The student is expected to publish during the time of the Ph.D

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Applicants to this project should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.

Experience in qualitative research will be advantageous.

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Dr Kim Walker (kim.walker@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

The University of Aberdeen actively encourage applications from diverse career paths and backgrounds and across all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status, amongst other protected characteristics.

We also invite applications from those returning from a career break, industry or other roles. We typically require a minimum 2:1 in your first degree (or equivalent), but exceptions can be made where applicants can demonstrate excellence in alternative ways, including, but not limited to, performance in masters courses, professional placements, internships or employment – this will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The University of Aberdeen offers flexible study arrangements such as part-time study, however this does depend on the nature of the project/research so will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please note: This is a self-funded opportunity.

• Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• You should apply for Medical Education (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
• Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and the project title on the application form. If this is not included, your application may not be considered for the project.
• Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level.
• Your application must include: a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
• You do not need to provide a research proposal with this application.
• If you are still undertaking your undergraduate degree, it is helpful to the selection panel if you could provide documentation showing your grades to date (this can be a screenshot from an online portal).
• Please note: Project supervisors or staff at the University of Aberdeen will not respond to requests for funding assistance.