Being a PhD student at the Unit

Glasgow Buchanan Street

Our dynamic and interactive research environment is ideal for anyone looking to work with, and learn from, colleagues from a range of disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, epidemiology, public health medicine, nutrition and mathematics. We are part of the School of Health and Wellbeing, which received an Athena SWAN Gold Award in 2018 in recognition of its commitment to tackling gender inequality.

There are lots of things to think about before applying for a PhD studentship, from eligibility to finances. This page is designed to answer some of the most commonly asked questions, and to help you decide whether our studentships offer the right opportunity for you.

Why choose MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit?

As a PhD student at our unit, you will:

  • Work in a unit where the majority of staff are focused on research and postgraduate training, alongside almost 130 researchers, clinical fellows, administrative and technical staff, postgraduate research students and visiting fellows
  • Receive a thorough training in both generic research skills and transferable skills, as well as subject-specific training
  • Work in a Unit with a strong commitment to student wellbeing and pastoral support, via two postgraduate student convenors who not only conduct more formal progress meetings, input into training and, if necessary, assist with admin and formalities, but are also available to discuss any more personal issues that are impacting on a student's life or academic progress
  • Be encouraged to attend all unit events, meetings and activities
  • Be registered as a student in either the College of Social Sciences or the College of Medicine, Veterinary and Life Sciences.
  • Be part of the University’s School of Health and Wellbeing
  • Work in a unit that receives joint core funding from the Medical Research Council (MRC) and Scottish Chief Scientist’s Office (CSO).

Get in touch

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about PhD studentships – don’t hesitate to get in touch by email Susan.Wilkie@glasgow.ac.uk.

Hear from our current PhD students

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View our current doctoral students

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