Expansions in early learning and childcare: economic analysis of parental outcomes and preferences

Applications are sought for a 3.5 year full-time, self-funding PhD project to be based at the Health Economics Research Unit (HERU), University of Aberdeen.

The project is available to be undertaken on-campus or by distance learning. This PhD project offers an opportunity to engage in exciting policy-relevant research with a leading health economics research group in the UK. The project will focus on the employment, health and well-being impacts of expansion of free Early Learning and Childcare support in Scotland. This will involve analysis of existing household datasets in Scotland and the rest of the UK, along with collection of new primary data to investigate parental preferences.

The purpose of the PhD is to build up the evidence base and inform existing national evaluations in Scotland of the impact of the expansion. The student will be able to access a range of specialist training courses and other development opportunities to support the studentship and will also engage closely with relevant policy-makers (Aberdeen City Council, Public Health Scotland, Scottish Government) throughout the course of the project.

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Professor Paul McNamee (p.mcnamee@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

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Applicants to this project should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.

We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to having a diverse, inclusive team.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please note: This is a self-funded opportunity.

• Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• You should apply for Applied Health Sciences (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
• Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and the project title on the application form. If this is not included, your application may not be considered for the project.
• Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level.
• Your application must include: a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
• If you are still undertaking your undergraduate degree, it is helpful to the selection panel if you could provide documentation showing your grades to date (this can be a screenshot from an online portal).
• Please note: Project supervisors will not respond to requests for funding assistance.
• If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don’t hesitate to contact us at pgrs-admissions@abdn.ac.uk