PhD Studentship in the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC): North East and North Cumbria – Community-based Diagnostics

This fully funded PhD studentship at Newcastle University will examine equity, access and place‑based health impacts of Community Diagnostic Centres. The research combines qualitative interviews with service users and staff and advanced statistical analysis of health outcomes across communities. Supervision is provided by experts in health inequalities, service access, and statistical methods, with strong links to the NIHR ARC and local health partners. The candidate will also engage in knowledge mobilisation to disseminate findings regionally and will complete an eight‑week placement as part of the programme. The award lasts 3.5 years and can be undertaken full‑time or part‑time.

• Investigate the impact of Community Diagnostic Centres on health equity and access using mixed‑methods approaches.
• Conduct qualitative interviews with service users and healthcare staff to capture perspectives on CDCs.
• Apply advanced statistical techniques to analyse associations between CDC access and place‑based health outcomes.
• Collaborate with external partners, including the Great North Healthcare Alliance and public contributors, throughout the project.
• Develop and implement knowledge mobilisation strategies to disseminate findings locally and regionally.
• Complete an eight‑week placement as part of the doctoral training programme.
• Prepare progress reports, publications, and a final thesis presenting the research outcomes.