PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Physical activity is beneficial for both physical and mental health. The widespread availability of mobile technology provides an opportunity to support self-management during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Text messaging has become a popular and simple way to communicate in a low cost and unobtrusive way. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the effectiveness of text messaging to promote smoking cessation, weight loss, and physical activity. Such programmes are cost-effective, engaging, and patients find them easy to understand. The proposed PhD studentship will set up and examine a text messaging intervention for physical activity referral schemes in Scotland. This will include both quantitative and qualitative evaluation. It will compliment an existing PhD exploring the use of an app and online support system for such schemes.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally from an exercise, nursing, physiotherapy or other allied health professional background with a good fundamental knowledge of the promotion of physical activity to populations with a range of long-term medical conditions.
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.
Essential attributes:
· Experience of fundamental statistics
· Competent in MS Office suite
· Knowledge of the promotion of physical activity to populations with a range of long-term medical conditions
· Good written and oral communication skills
· Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
· Good time management
Desirable attributes:
A masters qualification in a related subject
Experience of conducting quantitative and qualitative research
When applying, please quote the application reference SHSC0034 on your form.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
· Completed application form
· CV
· 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)
· A personal research statement (This should include (a) a brief description of your relevant experience and skills, (b) an indication of
· What you would uniquely bring to the project and (c) a statement of how this project fits with your future direction.)
· Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)