Apply for the Fully Funded NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship 2026-27 at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) @London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is inviting applications for the 2026-27 NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship, a fully funded PhD studentship.

This prestigious three-year program, commencing in September 2026, offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers interested in advancing the study of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United Kingdom.

London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Scholarship Overview

The studentship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• A tax-free stipend at the UKRI annual rate (£23,805 for 2026-27)
• Tuition fees at the LSHTM Home fee rate
• An allowance for research and travel costs

This funding enables the successful candidate to pursue full-time doctoral research in a supportive, world-class environment, contributing to efforts to reduce the burden of syphilis and other STIs in the UK.

Research Environment at LSHTM

LSHTM is globally recognized for its excellence in public and global health research. Students, academics, and health professionals from around the world are drawn to its collaborative ethos, international presence, and high-impact research programs. PhD candidates benefit from mentoring by expert supervisors, guidance from an advisory committee of at least two experienced researchers, and active participation in the academic life of their department.

The school offers access to seminars, journal clubs, and up to four Master’s level study modules per academic year, enhancing research knowledge and skills.

Additionally, PhD students are encouraged to attend national and international conferences, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. LSHTM’s Transferable Skills Programme and Careers Service further support students in building the skills needed for future academic and professional success.

Doctoral Research Project

The NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship is designed for applicants interested in qualitative and health economic research methods with a focus on STIs. The project will investigate the health economic impacts and costs of syphilis in the UK and use this data to evaluate the effectiveness of potential control strategies.

The doctoral project will be supervised by leading experts:

• Professor Michael Marks (LSHTM)
• Professor Joe Tucker (LSHTM)
• Professor Fern Terris-Prestholt (University of Warwick)

Background on Syphilis in the UK

Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, is currently experiencing a resurgence in the UK. Rates are highest among men who have sex with men and racially minoritized groups, with over 7,000 cases reported annually—the highest since World War Two. Syphilis poses significant health risks, including stillbirth, and current control strategies have proven insufficient. This studentship addresses the urgent need for innovative, evidence-based interventions.

Project Objectives: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)

The research project aims to:

• Collect primary data on the economic impacts and costs of syphilis
• Integrate this data into mathematical models of disease transmission
• Conduct economic evaluations of different syphilis control strategies

Skills Development

PhD candidates will gain extensive expertise, including:

• Health economic analysis and costing methods
• Mathematical modelling of infectious diseases
• Collaboration with qualitative researchers, epidemiologists, and modellers

Support Structure

The scholarship provides robust support through:

• Monthly supervisory meetings
• Quarterly advisory panel meetings

The student will be based in the Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases at LSHTM, with opportunities to collaborate with staff at both LSHTM and the University of Warwick, as well as other partners across the UK.

Eligibility Criteria: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)

Applicants must meet LSHTM’s minimum entry requirements and demonstrate:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in health economics, public health with an economics focus, or related fields
• Competency in statistical software such as STATA or R
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience working with community partners and populations affected by syphilis

The studentship is available only to candidates eligible for the Home fee rate. Detailed guidance on fee status can be found on the LSHTM and UKCISA websites.

Application Process

Applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Michael Marks for an informal discussion before applying.

To apply, candidates must submit an online research degree application via the LSHTM portal by 11 May 2026, 23:59 BST. Required documents include:

• Academic transcripts
• Two-page CV
• Research proposal (max 2 pages) with a specific research question, methodology, and up to five key references
• References
• Personal statement outlining suitability for the PhD

Applicants must indicate the scholarship funding by writing “NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship” in the funding section of the application portal. Only complete applications will be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to remote interviews.

Conclusion: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)

The NIHR UK Syphilis Research Scholarship at LSHTM represents a unique opportunity for emerging researchers to contribute to critical public health research. With full financial support, access to a world-class research environment, and mentorship from leading experts, this PhD studentship offers the tools and network needed to make a meaningful impact on STI control in the UK.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.