About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Department of Psychology, based in the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, is looking for an applicant for a fully-funded scholarship, on one of the following projects:
Project 1 FC01: Food and the Self
Contact: francesca.cotier@kcl.ac.uk
This project explores how food and eating shape identity and self-concept. It will:
review how food identity has been conceptualised and measured
conduct qualitative interviews to explore lived experiences of food and identity
develop and validate a new psychological measure of food identity
The research aims to improve understanding of eating behaviour and support more culturally informed health interventions.
Project 2 JF02: Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI) in Autistic Adults
Contact: james.findon@kcl.ac.uk
This project investigates gastrointestinal symptoms in autistic adults using a disorders of gut–brain interaction framework. It will:
systematically review existing evidence
analyse secondary datasets comparing autistic and non-autistic adults on gastrointestinal symptoms and healthcare use
conduct an empirical study examining psychological and neurodevelopmental mechanisms (e.g., anxiety, interception, sensory processing) associated with DGBIs
The project aims to improve understanding of mechanisms and clinical implications.
Aim and Benefits of Fully funded 3-year PhD studentship in the Department of Psychology PhD Scholarship
The successful PhD student will receive a stipend for the full three years, equivalent to the RCUK stipend for postgraduate research students (currently £23,805 [including London weighting]).
In addition, the department will provide up to £3,000 per year for travel and research expenses.
Start date: 1 October 2026
Requirements for Fully funded 3-year PhD studentship in the Department of Psychology PhD Scholarship Qualification
Applicants should have (or be expected to obtain) a bachelor’s degree with 2:1 honours (or Overseas equivalent). A 2:2 degree may be considered only where applicants also offer a master’s with Merit.
Award conditions
The studentship lasts for three years.
Successful applicants will be registered for a PhD for three years.
Tuition fees are fully funded for Home applicants.The successful student will receive a stipend equivalent to the RCUK rate (£23,805 including London weighting, subject to annual updates).
Up to £3,000 per year will be provided for travel and research expenses.
The student will be expected to undertake Graduate Teaching Assistant duties, including leading seminars and practicals, marking, and providing feedback on the BSc in Psychology programme.
How to apply