Fully-funded PhD: The Role of Alcohol Packaging as a Communications Tool

The role of tobacco packaging as a marketing tool, and how it could be used to discourage use, has received considerable academic and policy interest. This has not been the case for alcohol packaging, which has only received limited research attention.

The aim of this studentship is to examine how alcohol packaging is used as a form of promotion, and also how it could be used for positive behaviour change. We anticipate that the successful applicant would do so by employing a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research.

To help inform this work, at the start of the PhD we would expect the successful candidate to conduct a comprehensive review of trade magazines, alcohol industry journals and other relevant material to explore how alcohol companies use packaging to promote their brands, and also a systematic review of the literature on health warnings on alcohol packaging. Ultimately, the goal of the studentship is to contribute to, and expand upon, existing knowledge in this field, and potentially help to inform future policy.

Application Requirements:
• Eligible applicants must hold at least a Bachelor (hons.) degree of either first or upper second class in Psychology, Health Sciences, Social Policy, Marketing or another related discipline.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as successful applicants will be working as part of a research team, and responsibilities will include interaction with research participants, and other professionals.
• A relevant MSc qualification would be desirable.
• Relevant research experience would be desirable.

To apply please include:
(i) One A4 page covering letter outlining your suitability, why you are interested in pursuing a PhD in this area, and any other information relevant to the application.
(ii) Your academic CV with contact details for two academic referees.
(iii) Copies of your academic transcripts.

Apply online via ‘Health Sciences (Stirling)’: https://portal.stir.ac.uk/student/course-application/get-course-block.jsp?dept=&type=R&course=&moa=&mos=

Once you have started the application process, please email [Email Address Removed] to ask to be exempted from the ‘find-a-supervisor’ process.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Crawford Moodie ([Email Address Removed]).