Job Description
Overview
Child health research crucially centres on the physical, mental, and social well-being of children. Understanding and addressing health issues in early life can lead to better health outcomes, reduce disease burden, and improve the quality of life for future generations.
Introduction
Our PhD in Child Health provides a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing child development, health, and well-being.
The programme is structured to promote independent research, with expert supervision and access to a wealth of resources, including clinical and community settings. Students receive specialised training in research methodologies, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations in child research.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration enhance the research experience, while workshops on communication skills and grant writing prepare students for successful careers. By engaging with healthcare professionals and policymakers, the programme ensures research relevance and real impact on child health outcomes.
Research topics
Potential research areas include childhood and adolescent diseases, nutrition, mental health, and public health interventions.
Research culture
We have connections to multiple nationally and internationally renowned research centres, including The Centre for Women’s Health Research,  Children’s Health Research Team, Harris Research Centre, and Experimental Arthritis Treatment Centre for Children (EATC4Children).Â
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How to apply
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1. Identify potential supervisors
It’s useful to contact potential supervisors before you begin your application. Explore our staff list for the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health.Â
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2. Prepare your application documents
You may need the following documents to complete your online application:
- A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
- University transcripts and degree certificates to date
- Passport details (international applicants only)
- English language certificates (international applicants only)
- A personal statement
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact details for two proposed supervisors
- Names and contact details of two referees.
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3. Apply
Finally, register and apply online. You’ll receive an email acknowledgment once you’ve submitted your application. We’ll be in touch with further details about what happens next.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year – £5,006
Part-time place, per year – £2,503
International fees
Full-time place, per year – £31,250
Part-time place, per year – £15,650
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this degree, as well as general student living costs.
Funding your PhD
If you’re a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan worth up to £30,301 to help with course fees and living costs.
There’s also a variety of alternative sources of funding. These include funded research opportunities and financial support from UK research councils, charities and trusts. Your supervisor may be able to help you secure funding.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition fees and living expenses.
Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
If you’re awarded this prestigious scholarship, you’ll receive significant funding to support your postgraduate research. This includes full payment of your PhD fees and a cash bursary of £17,000 per year while you study. One award is available in each academic year.
Sport Liverpool Performance Programme
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
