IHW5 - Managing maternal obesity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a doctoral candidate to contribute to research in the field of maternal obesity. Maternal obesity carries a number of health risks for mother and child and as obesity is increasingly stigmatised in the Western World pregnant women may also be subject to negative attitudes with a detrimental impact on their psychological wellbeing. Against a background of sub optimal communication between health care providers and obese pregnant women, and a lack of knowledge and skills in managing maternal obesity on the part of health care staff, recent NICE (2010) guidelines have highlighted a need for further research to identify effective ways of facilitating women to manage their weight during pregnancy. Adopting a qualitative approach, the PhD will focus on the perspectives of women, health care professionals and key stakeholders with the aim of developing an effective evidence based weight management intervention. Candidates should have a minimum of a 2.1 honours degree in midwifery and/or social sciences, have excellent interpersonal skills and be highly motivated. Experience of qualitative research at postgraduate level is desirable.

Candidates should be highly motivated with a strong commitment to academic research. A First Class, or a 2.1 Honours Degree (or equivalent) or a Masters Qualification in a relevant discipline is required. Relevant professional experience will also be considered. Each studentship provides full university fees for UK/EU applicants and a tax-free maintenance allowance of £13,590 per annum for 3 years (UK Research Council Rates). The studentship is available to start in October 2012. Interviews will be held on the 7th / 8th June 2012. Further details can be obtained at http://www.rgu.ac.uk/research/graduate-schools/applying-for-a-research-degree/funded-studentship-opportunities