The potential of psychological interventions to develop or increase individual psychological resilience

Psychological resilience is described as the ability to ‘bounce back’ from adversity, to beat the odds, recover and thrive. It is a principal facet of positive mental health and is associated with a variety of positive outcomes including increased life satisfaction and wellbeing, quality of life and functional capacity at times of adversity. Thus, resilience research has potential applications in a wide range of contexts where the risks of encountering challenge and adversity are high, including health, work, and education. When faced with adversity, resilience is demonstrated through behaviours, thoughts and actions that are adaptive and that mitigate negative outcomes. Whilst there will be scope for candidates to develop their own research questions and associated methodology, the suggestion that resilient responses can be learned is expected to form the primary focus of the investigation. Proposals focussing on psychological resilience in educational contexts are particularly welcome.
Health Sciences Research at the University of SalfordThe Centre for Health Sciences Research at the University of Salford comprises a multidisciplinary team of staff and research students drawn from the health professions and related disciplines. The research centre has world class research facilities including three biomechanics laboratories, a clinical imaging suite, a psychology lab and a rehabilitation flat. The School currently boasts over £5 million pounds of research funding and has extensive national and international links, with both academic and clinical partners. There is also a vibrant community of approximately 100 students studying either at Ph.D. level or Master’s by research.

For this studentship, you would work within the Applied Psychology research themes, see http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/health-sciences/research-groups/virtual-reality and http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/health-sciences/research-groups/psychology for further details. Applied Psychology Research at The University of Salford is housed within Psychology and Public Health in the School of Health Sciences. We have a thriving research culture with connections to school communities, health services and industry. Our students are have ample opportunities for research training and have an excellent track record of securing roles after completion. To find out more the research undertaken in Health Sciences at Salford see http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/health-sciences/ and to learn more about studying for a Ph.D. in health sciences at Salford, see http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/health-sciences/postgraduate-research
EligibilityCandidates should have first class or upper second class honours degree in Psychology. A relevant Masters degree or other evidence of research skills and experience is desirable.
FundingThis project is self-funded. However, we are willing to explore alternative funding options for the right candidate.

For guidance on making your application please visit: http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/health-sciences/postgraduate-research