Deafness and hearing loss combined is the most prevalent sensory deficit experienced by children. In England alone, more than 45000 children are deaf or have a hearing loss. Being deaf, especially when it occurs early in life, can greatly affect the development of language and communication skills. The early use of well fitted hearing devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants can support language and communication; however the experience of being deaf still has the potential to impact on social communication. Given how important social communication is for the academic success and emotional well-being of a child, this programme aims to help deaf children develop their social communication skills. Parents and teachers are exceptionally well placed to support deaf children in that development. Based on a survey of these two groups about their knowledge of and interest in the topic we have developed an intervention tool that is meant to guide parents and teachers in their support.
This PhD project aims to evaluate this new tool for efficiency and effectiveness of use and the impact it has on the development of social communication skills in children. It is anticipated that most of the deaf children will have hearing parents although there might be the potential to consider the inclusion of Deaf children who use a signed language and have Deaf parents/caregivers. The aim is to publish the results of the research in scientific peer-reviewed journals.The PhD project will be conducted in three phases: 1) a review of the literature with a particular focus on the evaluation of complex interventions; 2) an evaluation study; 3) a potential revision of the training guide.
Our group, the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD), is the premier UK centre for hearing loss research, education and service provision. We have a well-established track-record of improving the lives of individuals with hearing loss, and have over recent years published a number of research studies on the role of cognition in speech perception in internationally leading journals. Ultimately we want to help audiologists to understand which RST is most appropriate to use in the context of their clinical work. This PhD project will be conducted in three phases: (1) a review of the literature, (2) the creation and implementation of a number of behavioural experiments that quantify the contribution of various cognitive skills to the performance of a particular RST, and (3) relating performance on various RSTs to speech-in-noise perception.
Training/techniques to be provided
As PhD student you will receive training in:
- reviewing and evaluating the literature
- setting up an evaluation of a complex intervention
- quantitative and qualitative analysis skills needed to evaluate the intervention
- scientific writing
- recruiting and retaining participants
Entry Requirements
Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. This PhD will suit you if you have a background in audiology, hearing science, psychology, neuroscience, medical/clinical science or related discipline. Ideally, you with have a first class undergraduate degree and a postgraduate qualification that included a research project e.g., MSc or MRes. Evidence of research output (e.g., peer-reviewed publication, newsletter article, conference presentation) would be advantageous.
The project is suitable if you require excellent research training, in a stimulating and active environment, in order to become an independent, international researcher. It will also be suitable to you if you are a health professional whose career aspirations involve a combination of research with clinical activities.
Good writing skills will be essential.
Before you Apply
Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.
How To Apply
For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the appropriate subject title.
For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/programmes/integrated-teaching/
Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents by the advertised deadlines. Without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, your application will not be processed and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.
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/
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