The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), in collaboration with Makerere University and the Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Programme (MLW), is offering an exceptional and fully funded doctoral research opportunity. This prestigious NIHR PhD Studentship is focused on the critical and emerging field of the Anthropology of Diagnostics. This programme is designed to train the next generation of global health leaders in using deep qualitative social science to understand how diagnostic tools for major diseases are integrated into diverse communities and health systems. Successful candidates will embark on a transformative research journey, addressing real-world health challenges and contributing to more equitable and effective healthcare solutions in East Africa.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| University/Organisation | London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Makerere University, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust (MLW) |
| Department | Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy |
| Course Level | PhD (Doctoral Research) |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2025 (23:59 BST) |
| Award | Full tuition, tax-free stipend, research/travel expenses, training budget |
| Number of Awards | 2 |
| Nationality | Ugandan or Malawian nationals or long-term residents |
| Location | Research conducted in Uganda/Malawi with time at LSHTM, UK |
Subjects Offered
This PhD programme is uniquely centred on the Anthropology of Diagnostics. This means research will not focus on the biomedical or technical aspects of diagnostic tests themselves, but rather on the social, cultural, political, and economic factors that influence their development, rollout, and use. Students will explore questions of trust, accessibility, stigma, and the lived experience of diagnosis from the perspectives of both community and health workers. The research is specifically targeted towards diagnostics for HIV, Ebola, and diabetes, bridging the critical gap between infectious and non-communicable diseases.
Degree Offered
Upon successful completion, candidates will be awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree from the world-renowned London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). This qualification is globally recognised as a gold standard in public and global health research, opening doors to academic, research, and high-level policy careers worldwide.
Eligibility
This competitive studentship has specific eligibility criteria designed to support local research expertise:
- Eligible Countries: Applicants must be nationals of Uganda or Malawi, OR must have been a resident in either country for at least three years before application.
- Acceptable Subjects: The PhD must be in the Anthropology of Diagnostics, housed within the Faculty of Public Health and Policy at LSHTM.
- Admissible Criteria:
- A Master’s degree (already held or expected) in Anthropology, Sociology, or a closely related qualitative social science discipline.
- A demonstrated track record of research experience using ethnographic or other in-depth qualitative methods.
- A clear commitment to conducting long-term fieldwork research in either Uganda or Malawi.
- A strong research proposal aligned with the theme of diagnostics for HIV, Ebola, or diabetes.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the official LSHTM application portal before the strict deadline of 30th September 2025 (23:59 British Summer Time). A complete application is essential for consideration and must include the following documents:
- Academic Transcripts from all completed and ongoing university-level studies.
- A concise Two-Page CV highlighting relevant academic and research experience.
- A Brief Research Proposal (approx. 2 pages) outlining a specific research question, proposed methodology, country focus, and key references.
- A Personal Statement passionately explaining your interest in this specific PhD and your suitability for the programme.
- References must be arranged by the applicant and submitted by the referees directly through the portal before the deadline.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisory team for an informal discussion before formally applying. This is a crucial step to ensure your research ideas align with the programme’s goals. Incomplete applications or those missing references will not be considered.
Benefits
This is a comprehensive funding package that removes financial barriers and provides unparalleled academic support:
- Full tuition fees for full-time PhD study at LSHTM are covered.
- A tax-free stipend aligned with local rates to cover living costs.
- Generous funding for research and travel expenses related to fieldwork.
- A flexible training budget to attend external courses, workshops, and conferences.
- The prestigious opportunity to join the NIHR Academy for exclusive networking and training events.
- Access to world-class supervision, mentoring, and academic activities across all three partner institutions: LSHTM, Makerere University, and MLW.
- Support and funding to present findings at national and international conferences, enhancing your professional profile.
This represents a 1.6 percent increase in available funding for anthropological research in this specific geographic focus, making it a truly unique opportunity. The holistic support system ensures you can focus entirely on producing high-impact research.
Apply Now
Do not miss this life-changing opportunity to advance your research career at the intersection of anthropology and global health. Secure your future and contribute to meaningful change.
