University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The PhD is a research-led programme in which you will undertake an original programme of supervised research leading to a thesis and viva voce examination. Projects commonly address topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, physical activity epidemiology, behaviour change and interventions, cardiometabolic health, musculoskeletal health, and public health approaches to increasing activity across the life course.

Alongside your core research, you will receive structured training in research methods and transferable skills. Typical elements include:

• Research methods and biostatistics: advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, study design, and data analysis techniques relevant to physical activity and health research.
• Laboratory and field techniques: physiological measurement (cardiorespiratory fitness, metabolic assessment), body composition assessment, motion analysis and wearable sensor technologies, depending on project needs.
• Behavioural science and intervention development: theory-driven approaches to behaviour change, process evaluation and implementation science.
• Academic and professional skills: scientific writing, presentation skills, research governance and ethics, grant writing and research impact pathways.

Structured training is typically provided through research training modules and workshops available across the university and through the doctoral school. You will meet regularly with your supervisory team to plan experiments, analyse data, and prepare manuscripts and thesis chapters.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree and a postgraduate research degree or master's degree with a strong research component. Typical candidates have qualifications in exercise science, sport and exercise physiology, public health, epidemiology, psychology, biomedical science or a closely related discipline, together with evidence of research potential such as a dissertation, publications, or relevant work experience.

Selection normally requires:

• A detailed research proposal or expression of interest outlining your intended research question and approach.
• Identification of a prospective supervisor with aligned expertise and availability to supervise.
• Academic transcripts and at least two academic or professional references that can speak to your research potential.
• For international applicants whose first language is not English, an appropriate English language qualification at the level specified by the university.

Applicants with relevant professional experience in clinical or public health settings are also welcomed; applicants without a formal master's but with substantial research experience should contact the department to discuss suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates from this research programme pursue careers in academia, including postdoctoral research and lecturing roles, and in research posts within hospitals, public health agencies and government bodies. Other career pathways include roles in clinical trials and research management, health promotion and policy, consultancy in the sport and fitness sector, positions with non-governmental organisations, and R&D or evidence roles in industry (for example, medical technology, wearable devices and pharmaceutical companies).

Completing a PhD also develops transferable skills valued in many sectors: critical appraisal, project management, advanced data analysis, scientific communication and grant writing.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde has an established tradition of interdisciplinary research in health, sport and wellbeing. As a doctoral researcher you will benefit from collaboration across neighbouring disciplines, access to research training through the university doctoral school, and links with local health services and industry partners.

Strathclyde provides well-equipped facilities for physical activity and health research, including exercise physiology and metabolic assessment equipment, motion analysis and sensor technologies, and opportunities for community and population-level studies. The university's strong emphasis on applied research and knowledge exchange supports students who want their work to influence practice and policy in healthcare, public health and sport.