The Global Challenge of AMR: Policy and Organizational Learning from Southern and Eastern Europe (Medical Research Foundation National PhD Training Programme in AMR Research)

The global challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) requires an effective health policy response in affected countries. AMR is a ‘wicked problem’ which defies simple or one agency based solutions and demands a coordinated policy response nationally.

This project will investigate the economic, organizational, regulatory and policy drivers and constraints which result in the national prioritisation, competition between or integration of national, regional and local policies for AMR. An assessment of AMR policy processes will be undertaken using mixed methods, including national case studies. Specifically, the process of AMR health policy formation in different economic and political contexts will be analysed. Countries which appear to be more ‘successful’ in getting AMR high up the health policy agenda and keeping it there are of especial interest.

Variation sampling will help us select countries from Eastern and Southern Europe along the axes of AMR burden, the nature of the health system, political buy-in, economic resources and opportunities for policy innovation. Health policy related theoretical frameworks will be accessed to analyse the AMR related health process. Transferability of learning to the international field will be a key outcome. The successful candidate will be embedded in the King’s Interdisciplinary Social Science College Doctoral Training Centre (LISS-DTP) which will provide interdisciplinary training opportunities and local student cohort activities.

Applicants must have/or expect to gain a first class or upper second class honours degree or overseas equivalent in a relevant subject area. A Master’s Degree is preferable but not essential. We look for highly motivated applicants with excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.

Applicants are requested to send a full CV (including the names and email addresses of at least two academic referees), and personal statement (detailing why you are interested in the research project). Suitable candidates will be then asked to complete an electronic application form at in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.

A tax-free stipend and home UK/EU fees will be awarded. Overseas students should be able to demonstrate adequate financial support to cover the difference between the home/EU fee and the overseas fee.

Please submit your CV and personal statement to: Dr Raheelah Ahmad ([Email Address Removed]).