PhD in Communications

The Centre for National Training and Research Excellence in Understanding Behaviour (Centre-UB) is inviting applications for a Doctoral Studentship in association with our collaborative partner Birmingham City Council to start in October 2026./nThis PhD project will evaluate how health organisations can work collaboratively with arts organisations to support impactful social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) and use creative methods to promote healthy behaviours. The researcher will combine qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to (1) evaluate current practices and priorities for health messaging in the city of Birmingham; (2) articulate key challenges and opportunities in using creative approaches to emphasise preventative activities to avoid health conditions; (3) identify how future campaigns could utilise creative methods to increase the reach and accessibility of public health information./nThe researcher will be based in the College of Arts and Law at the University of Birmingham and embedded within Birmingham City Council’s creative public health activities, particularly during key phases such as data collection, participatory workshops, and co-design activities. Training and support will be provided by academic supervisors and partner organisation staff. The researcher will also benefit from informal learning through observing in the day-to-day activities of the Creative Health team and cultural partners.