LSHTM Research Fellow and Fully Funded PhD Studentship Opportunities 2026–2027: Data Science, Statistics, Epidemiology and Maternity Inequalities
The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and the NIHR Maternity Disparities Consortium are offering research fellow positions and fully funded PhD studentships focused on data science, statistics, epidemiology, and maternity health inequalities.
Overview
The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the NIHR Maternity Disparities Consortium (MDC) provide researchers and aspiring doctoral scholars with exciting pathways to contribute to major national health programmes. These roles and studentships focus on utilising large-scale, routinely collected healthcare data to evaluate maternity and neonatal outcomes, address health disparities, and generate policy-influencing evidence.
There are two primary tracks available: Research Fellow positions in Data Science, Statistics, or Epidemiology, and fully funded PhD studentships under the NIHR Inequalities Challenge focusing on maternity disparities.
Eligibility
- Research Fellow Positions: Applicants should possess a postgraduate qualification (doctoral degree preferred) in data science, statistics, epidemiology, or a related quantitative field. Strong experience analysing large observational healthcare datasets or clinical trials is expected.
- PhD Studentships: Candidates must normally hold a First-Class or Upper Second-Class Honours degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in statistics, applied mathematics, data science, computer science, or a similar quantitative discipline. A relevant Master's degree is recommended.
- International Applicants: International candidates are welcome to apply for the PhD studentships, though they must secure alternative funding to cover the difference between UK and overseas tuition fees and any immigration costs.
Benefits
- Research Fellow Compensation: Salaries follow the LSHTM Grade 6 scale ranging from £45,728 to £51,872 per annum pro rata (inclusive of London Weighting), alongside 30 days of annual leave pro rata and pension access.
- PhD Funding Package: Successful doctoral candidates receive full home tuition fees, an annual tax-free stipend matching UKRI rates (£21,805 outside London or £23,805 inside London), and a £5,000 allowance for research, travel, training, and consumables.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit applications online following the specific instructions and document naming conventions detailed by the host institution. Research Fellow applications require a tailored supporting statement addressing the selection criteria. PhD applicants must supply a two-page CV, cover letters, and reference details.
Deadline
Applications are subject to strict closing dates depending on the specific track:
- Research Fellow Application Deadline: Thursday 27 August 2026 at 10:00 PM.
- PhD Studentship Application Deadline: Monday 7 September 2026 at 5:00 PM.