Understanding physical activity and sedentary behaviour in adults with congenital heart disease: co-design and feasibility testing of an intervention

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)
Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Summary

Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defects, defined as clinically significant structural heart disease present at birth and affect approximately 1% of births. Advances in the management of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) has improved survival rates and life expectancy. The role of physical activity (PA) for optimal health is well understood and PA has been associated with health related quality of life in patients with CHD. Indeed, physically active adult CHD (ACHD) patients report more favourable physical and mental health compared to inactive ACHD patients. However, despite the benefits of PA for these patients, low levels of PA among the ACHD population have been observed in the UK with just 4–23% of patients meeting PA guidelines.There is little research that investigates barriers to PA and sedentary behaviour among this group and understanding attitudes towards and the PA experiences of ACHD patients will help develop appropriate interventions to enhance health and promote PA among this population.

In addition to a review, the current PhD project will consist of three distinct yet complementary studies:

Study 1: Understanding the factors affecting PA and sedentary behaviour among ACHD patients.

Study 2: Co-design an intervention to increase PA and reduce sedentary behaviour among ACHD patients.

Study 3: Feasibility testing of an intervention to increase PA and reduce sedentary behaviour among ACHD patients.

The Supervisory team has extensive experience in supervising PhD Researchers using a range of methodologies among clinical populations. This PhD project would suit a graduate with a background in Healthcare Science, Sport and Exercise Science, Public Health, Allied Health, Psychology, Human Biology or a related area. Applicants should have good knowledge of physical activity and sedentary behaviourand/or experience conducting quantitative and/or qualitative research. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively through oral and written means is also desirable.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

Masters at 65%
Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)
Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.