PhD in January 2027

Tuition costs 22,645 USD per year. Applications for the Dec 2026 intake close on Sep 1, 2026.

This PhD project, titled PsychotROpiC dEciSion-making pregnancy-SMI (PROCESS), offers a unique opportunity to conduct critical research in partnership with the Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The programme addresses a significant gap in clinical knowledge regarding how to safely manage severe mental illness (SMI) during pregnancy, where the risks of both untreated conditions and psychotropic medication use are profound.

Students on this programme will engage in a realist evaluation to determine what works, for whom, and in what circumstances, specifically focusing on the shared-decision making process between clinicians, pregnant women, and their families. The research is structured into three distinct work packages:

• WP1: A comprehensive realist review of existing literature on shared-decision making to optimize psychotropic use.
• WP2: A realist evaluation involving in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including patients, family members, and medical professionals, to develop evidence-based guidance.
• WP3: A final phase dedicated to dissemination, maximizing impact, and engaging directly with major policymakers such as the NHS and NICE.

This fully-funded research position is ideal for candidates looking to make an original, high-impact contribution to mental health policy and clinical practice while developing advanced qualitative research skills in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment.

Aston University in Birmingham is a career-focused public research university with a central campus and a long tradition of linking education to industry. Founded from technical roots in 1895, Aston combines academic study with practical experience and is known for strong employability outcomes. The urban campus places students close to business, cultural and transport hubs, and a multicultural student community contributes to a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

Aston emphasises applied learning, professional placements and partnerships with employers, so many programmes integrate a placement year or live industry projects. Facilities include modern lecture spaces, specialised labs and student services that support academic success and wellbeing. Small-group teaching and strong student support ensure international students have access to language help, academic workshops and career guidance tailored to the UK labour market.

Student life blends campus convenience with Birmingham’s vibrant cultural scene, offering clubs, societies and volunteer opportunities to build networks and practical skills. The university’s careers team helps with CVs, internships and graduate recruitment, while accommodation and welfare services ease the transition to study in the UK. Applicants should explore course accreditation, placement options and scholarship possibilities early, and connect with Aston’s international advisers to plan applications and arrival logistics.