Developing a behaviour change digital intervention to improve public and patient understanding of antimicrobial resistance (Project ID SHSC0051)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the top 10 global public health threats [1]. Due to the spread of AMR, a growing number of infections are becoming harder to treat, leading to longer hospital stays, greater costs and increased mortality [2]. Evidence demonstrates that public understanding of AMR as a threat to society remains poor despite public campaigns [3]. The consequences of AMR remain abstract and problematic for the public to appreciate; therefore, insufficient attention is paid to the issue. The deficits in the public’s knowledge of the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against viral infections are contributing factors to overprescribing antibiotics. In the UK, the majority of antibiotics are prescribed in the primary care settings, but a substantial proportion of these prescriptions (up to 50%) is unnecessary, often due to patients’ expectations and/or demands for antibiotics during GP visits [4].

Evidence to date shows that there is lack of interventions targeting the general public and that contribution of behavioural science remains underutilised in the design of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives. One important strategy to control AMR and influence behaviour is appropriate communication and education about unnecessary antimicrobial use and the spread of AMR. The Scottish Government has been at the forefront of developing the UK Government’s 20-year vision to contain and control AMR by 2040, with the National Action Plan focusing on investing in innovation [5]. Scotland’s 2018 Digital Health and Care Strategy recognised the transformative potential of technology and set out an ambitious strategic direction to embrace the opportunities that it presents [6].

We are pleased to offer this opportunity for a self-funded PhD student to join our research project within the School of Health and Social Care and School of Computing Engineering and the Built Environment, Edinburgh Napier University. We are recruiting a PhD student (FT, but open to PT discussions) to conduct research in developing a new behaviour change intervention for the general public to improve their knowledge and understanding of antimicrobial resistance. The PhD candidate will carry out behavioural analysis (e.g., using qualitative and/or quantitative data, with the aim of developing appropriate educational materials (e.g., website, app or interactive learning module) for the general public as part of the wider programme of work.

This project would be suitable for a student with a social science or health background, such as sociology, psychology, pharmacy, nursing or medicine. Those with a keenness for software development or programming work will also enjoy this opportunity. We expect the candidate to demonstrate the willingness and potential to develop their mixed methods research skills during the project.

Interviews will take place online week commencing 22^nd July 2024.

 

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in social science or health-related area, such as sociology, psychology, pharmacy, nursing or medicine but with a good fundamental knowledge of  health research landscape.

 

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

 

Essential attributes:

·        Experience of fundamental health background  

·        Competent in planning & structuring own workload

·        Knowledge of mixed-methods research

·        Good written and oral communication skills

·        Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project

·        Good time management

Desirable attributes:

Masters degree in the relevant area of study.

 

TO APPLY PLEASE CLICK ON THE ‘INSTITUTION WEBSITE’ LINK ON THE RIGHT-HAND SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

When applying, please quote the application reference SHSC0051 on your form.

 APPLICATION CHECKLIST

·        Completed application form 

·        CV

·        2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)

·        A personal research statement (This should include (a) a brief description of your relevant experience and skills, (b) an indication of

·        What you would uniquely bring to the project and (c) a statement of how this project fits with your future direction.)

·        Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)