Funded PhD: Supporting trans and non-binary inclusion: wellbeing and dignity in health and social care

Proposed project supervisors

Project in detail: Supporting trans and non-binary inclusion: wellbeing and dignity in health and social care

In the UK, trans and non-binary people’s rights and equalities continue to be under threat. Across many European countries, trans and non-binary people experience considerable health and social inequalities, yet these are commonly overlooked due, to amongst other things, government policy (or lack of), prejudice and discrimination, poorly designed research, as well as cultural, social, legal, and physical barriers to accessing support for health and wellbeing. Indeed, in a recent report the Council of Europe note that trans (and non-binary) people commonly face significant challenges in accessing trans-specific healthcare that is “accessible, affordable, respectful, and of high quality” (CoE, 2024). The report goes on to note further challenges around health and social care provider knowledge gaps, lack of social support, and gender-affirming services either being unavailable or inaccessible; for example, due to lengthy waiting times (~ 7 years in the UK currently), prohibitively high costs, or unreasonable requirements.

The Paul Cottingham Trust PhD Scholarship offers a funded opportunity (full-time or part-time) to develop a project focusing on trans and non-binary inclusion within the broad remit of supporting health, wellbeing, and dignity in health and social care. In doing so, the PhD will contribute to a wider programme of research within the CTSG that aims to promote gender diversity in higher education and society, and to contribute to research that is related to trans experiences and rights and that challenges institutional genderism in wider debates about gender. The scholarship also aims to build researcher capacity within and around the trans and non-binary community. It will be awarded to a candidate who is committed to making a difference to wider trans and non-binary communities, especially its most marginalised members and can demonstrate a commitment to social change, trans rights and a vision for the future that helps transform trans and non-binary inclusion.

We welcome applicants to develop their research proposal within the broad remit of ‘trans and non-binary inclusion: supporting health, wellbeing, and dignity in health and social care’.

Entry requirements

Academic entry requirements

Applicants should have a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree ideally in social science or other relevant discipline (e.g. health sciences, public health, health promotion, psychology, sociology); and desirably hold or expect to achieve excellent grades in a masters degree (which includes qualitative/quantitative methods) in a relevant subject from a UK university or comparable qualifications from another recognised university.

Applicants are also required to submit a research proposal of no more than 1,000 words.

Eligibility criteria 

Due to the post’s funding it is only open to home applicants as defined by the Fees Regulations.   

We particularly welcome applications from trans and non-binary communities*. 

*See the Stonewall glossary of terms 

English language entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must have successfully completed a Secure English language Test (SELT) in the last two years. Applicants who have obtained or are studying for a UK degree may apply without a SELT. However, the university may request a SELT is taken as part of any award made.  

English language IELTS requirements are 7.0 overall, 7.0 for writing and no component below 6.5.

We accept a number of English language qualifications including IELTS. Please contact us if you have any queries arising from this. Further details can be found here:  

Prove your English language abilities with a secure English language test (SELT) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 

Additional requirements

The successful applicant will be required to provide a brief annual update on their progress on the scholarship for the purposes of reporting to the funder, the Paul Cottingham Trust. This may include in-person or online meetings with the funder together with representatives from the University.

The scholarship may be withdrawn if a student fails to meet the conditions set by the university. 

Funding

Contact us to find out more

Guide to making your application

We will only consider complete applications - the application is complete once you have submitted all of the following:  

• Your research proposal (max 1000 words).  
• Copies of your bachelors and masters certificates, including transcripts (or interim transcripts if not yet completed.  
• Copy of your IELTS (or equivalent) certificate (if applicable).  
• Copy of your passport.  
• Two references uploaded or requested - one must be an academic reference from your most recent period of study. Both must have been written within the last year. 

To submit your application please follow these steps:  

1. Click the 'apply online now' button, on the right.  
2. Select 'register and start a new application', to create your user account.  
3. Once you are logged in, select 'apply to a new course'.  
4. Select the type of course 'research degree'.  
5. Select mode of study 'full-time' or 'part-time'.  
6. Select 'Doctoral College'.  
7. Select 'Supporting trans and non-binary inclusion’
8. Click 'apply'.  

You will now be able to complete the online application form.