Development of protocols and training to safely manage allergies at schools

Allergies affect at least a quarter of school children in Europe with significant consequences on their quality of life and learning achievements. People with food allergies are at high risk of severe reactions and in extreme cases, death. Over the last 10 years, a significant increase in hospital admissions for anaphylaxis has been recorded in Western countries, making allergy a public health problem. Children spend much of their time in school where they can be exposed to situations that increase their risk for an allergic reaction, especially to food. Because one quarter of children with allergies have their first allergic reaction at school, staff awareness on allergic diseases is essential. School staff should be trained to recognize and treat severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

The aim of this PhD project is to support and educate school staff to provide a safe environment for children suffering from severe allergies. This PhD will evaluate current practices, the level of staff competence and identify needs for further training. The student will develop, implement and evaluate an age appropriate allergy protocol for use in Scottish schools. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches will be employed.

This PhD opportunity is a collaboration between academia, clinical colleagues and a leading industrial partner in management of allergies including food allergies. The eligible candidate should have a 1st class BSc (Hons) or a 2:1 with an MSc in Nursing, Clinical Nutrition, Public Health, Allied Health Professions or Social Sciences. During the course of the PhD, the student will receive training in allergy, qualitative and quantitative research methodology and epidemiology and will interact actively with the industrial partner.

This fully funded PhD studentship will cover project running expenses, EU/Home student tuition fees, and the standard RCUK student stipend for 36 months. The student will be jointly supervised by senior academic staff within the University of Glasgow and clinical staff from the National Health Service in Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The student will be based at the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing.


Candidates should apply online using the University of Glasgow e-portal. Applications closing date 5 pm 10th of September 2018

Please contact via email for further information

Dr Konstantinos Gerasimidis; [Email Address Removed]
Dr Evi Germeni; [Email Address Removed]
Dr George Raptis; [Email Address Removed]