An exploration of breast-feeding environments in Ireland and cross county comparison using a citizen science approach

Breast milk is a safe, natural, nutritious, and sustainable food for babies. Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect against many common childhood illnesses such as diarrhoea and respiratory diseases. It is estimated that inadequate breastfeeding is responsible for 16% of child deaths each year. Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests and are less likely to be overweight or obese later in life. Women who breastfeed have reduced cancer and type II diabetes risk. Globally, the rates of breastfeeding fall well short of the target required to protect the health of women and children. Ireland has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world. Barriers to breastfeeding include lack of appropriate breast-feeding environments in their local community and upon returning to work. The proposed Ph.D. will explore breast-feeding environments in Ireland in local areas and in workplaces using a citizen science approach. We will compare and contrast the environments in Ireland with those available in other European Counties where breastfeeding rates are consistently higher.

This project is a collaboration with Dr Regien Biesma, an Academic based in the University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCG) and Professor Anthony Staines, Chair of Health Systems Research at DCU.

Tenure – 4 year PhD

Mandatory Specification

Candidates for this project will require a background in nursing, midwifery, nutrition, social sciences, anthropology, social geography, urban planning or other cognate discipline. All candidates should have a minimum of 2:1 honours degree (level 8) in the disciplinary areas outlined or in a cognate discipline. Candidate should be highly motivated, enthusiastic individuals.

How do I apply?

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full:

https://forms.office.com/e/pLEfwkCV0k

• Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
• At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation.
• For successful candidates, referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference.

Applications must include: 

(i) a completed application form 

(ii) English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements.

Deadline: All applications must be made online by 31 May 2024, (12am, midnight)

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full and on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed.

Further information on the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland can be found here: https://www.rcsi.com/

Expected shortlisting date – 10th June 2024

Expected interview dates – 21st, 24th and 25th June 2024

Projected start date of position – 16th September 2024

Supervisor Information

• Professor Mary Rose Sweeney
• Dr Claire Timon
• Dr Angela Flynn
• Professor Anthony Staines
• Dr Regien Biesma