An investigation of sample size in five qualitative research approaches: A focused mapping review and synthesis

Applications are invited for a 3-year self-funded PhD Studentship starting at a date to be arranged

Calculating and justifying sample size in qualitative research has been the subject of much debate for some time and over the past 10 years there has been a number of helpful analyses of how many qualitative interviews are enough (Guest et al. 2006; Baker & Edwards 2016). Although these provide guidance for qualitative researchers, there is still much to investigate in this field; a synthesis of literature is needed. This PhD will engage with novel review processes described below to investigate how qualitative researchers in the health and social sciences are using and justifying their samples. The inquiry will be made with reference to Creswell’s (2013) five qualitative approaches and will include, for example, exploration of sampling in focus group research (building on the work of Carlsen and Glenton (2011) and observation and interviewing (Gerson & Horowitz 2002).

The successful applicant will be supervised by two highly experienced researchers who have extensive experience in a range of qualitative approaches. We have been part of a team that has developed the primary methodology to be used in the PhD, the Focused Mapping Review and Synthesis. This is a specific form of literature review that is focused on processes rather than outcomes. It does not seek to review all evidence on a subject (as with a systematic review). Instead, it focuses on specific journals and scrutinises the articles in them within a defined timeframe. The result is a snap-shot profile of what is happening in that particular field. An important part of the PhD will be to learn about this innovative methodology and to be part of developing and testing it further. We expect that the PhD will contribute new knowledge to the field of qualitative research on how qualitative sample sizes are used in the five research approaches.

Person Specification

Applicants should have a strong background in research methods and ideally will have some experience of literature reviews and qualitative research. They should have a commitment to investigating qualitative approaches and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a health/social sciences subject.

How to apply

Applications should be directed to Dr Caroline Bradbury-Jones at [Email Address Removed]. To apply, please send:
• A Detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.

Applicants will be required to attend an interview. This can be conducted face –to –face, by telephone or skype