This fully-funded PhD seeks to use mixed-methods in order to explore gender bias is an across the continuum of medical education. Utilising feminist theory, this research seeks to add depth to these early accounts of students’ experiences of gender bias by conducting cross-institutional, multi-year qualitative research. In addition, this programme of study will explore connections between the characteristics of women who are likely to struggle in postgraduate training, to the experiences of women with similar characteristics within undergraduate medical education.
Pertaining not only to women, feminist theory is concerned with all-gender based inequities including cis- and trans-gender rights. A thorough investigation as to the relevance of the many types of feminist theory to students’ of all genders’ experiences of gender within medical curricula is wanting - potentially leading to new theory development to adequately encapsulate student experience.
This doctoral work aims to:
1) Using UK Medical Education Database (UKMED) data, explore and model the career trajectories of women, compared to male doctors, in two key, but contrasting, specialities (Surgery and General Practise). Aim: to identify the profiles of female undergraduate medical students most likely to experience better, or poorer, postgraduate educational outcomes. This will guide the sampling and interviewing approach to the project’s qualitative component.
2) Explore medical students’ experiences of gender within their courses of study to investigate possible early causes of differential postgraduate outcomes and work to facilitate early intervention
3) Explore the applicability of feminist theory to the experiences of medical students, developing, if necessary, new theory to explain and contextualise students’ experiences of formal and hidden curricula
4) Develop recommendations in partnership with key stakeholders (e.g. patients, students, faculty, educational leaders) for challenging gender bias and gender-based oppression within curricula to facilitate early intervention, aiming to improve the experiences of women with poorer postgraduate educational outcomes
Entry Requirements
Applicants are expected to hold (or about to obtain) a minimum upper second class undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in relevant discipline, such as biomedical sciences or sociology. A Master's degree in a relevant subject and/or experience in medical education, research methods or health related discipline is desirable.
Applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Primary Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible.
How To Apply
To be considered for this Studentship you MUST submit a formal online application form - full details on how to apply can be found on https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/
Please select 'PhD Medicine' under academic programme when completing your online application.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/