Myopia, known as short-sightedness, is where distance vision becomes blurry in childhood, causing the need to wear spectacles or contact lenses at all times. The prevalence of myopia has doubled over the last 50 years, and is set to rise in the locally and globally, with 50% of the population becoming myopic by 2050. This is of concern because myopia is accompanied with greater risk of irreversible sight loss through secondary disease in later adulthood, signifying concern for affected individuals and healthcare providers in the future.
For this research project we would like to look at the development of ocular prescriptions and myopia across Bradford, studying the prevalence and potentially the interventions of myopia within the local population. We aim to try and obtain a diverse sample within Bradford and West Yorkshire. As lifestyle factors including time outdoors and close work are related to developing myopia, we want to explore how lifestyle differences between children from different backgrounds and cultures may play a role in their different levels of myopia risk.
Eligibility
The successful applicant will hold a minimum of an upper class honours degree (2:1 or above). This project may suit graduates with a scientific background or a healthcare discipline/profession. Relevant training will be provided for all activities necessary for data collection and analysis.
This project is open to candidates who self-identify as being from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background, and have UK ‘home’ student status.
Under sections 158-159 of the Equality Act 2010, positive action can be taken where members of protected groups are under-represented. At Bradford our data show that people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic groups who are UK nationals are significantly under-represented at postgraduate researcher level. This this initiative offers targeted support for these students.
These are lawful measures designed to address systemic and structural issues which result in under-representation of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic students in PGR study.
This project is available as a fully funded PhD. Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisors informally (by email to [Email Address Removed]) to discuss the project before applying.
Positive Action Statement: Brad-ATTAIN Studentships
At the University of Bradford our vision is a world of inclusion and equality of opportunity, where people want to, and can, make a difference. We place equality and diversity, inclusion, and a commitment to social mobility at the centre of our mission and ethos. In working to make a difference we are committed to addressing systemic inequality and disadvantages experienced by Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and students.
We recognise the importance and the benefits to research quality that come from diverse perspectives, and from belonging to a diverse research community. Therefore, as part of our Brad-ATTAIN initiative to increase diversity and inclusion among our PGR community, the University of Bradford is offering 2 fully funded PhD studentships for UK candidates who self-identify as being from a Black, Asian or Ethnic Minority background.
Enquiries and applications
For informal enquiries, please contact [Email Address Removed] or [Email Address Removed]. Formal applications can be submitted through this link.
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