Vision and Hearing Sciences PhD project opportunities

Find out more about our innovative, self-funded PhD projects below.

We already have supervisors active and engaged in the research topic in our School of Psychology, Sport and Sensory Science.

Research Group

Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Centre

Proposed supervisory team

Prof Peter Allen

Dr Ash Willmott

Theme

Vision impairment in sports

Summary of the research project

The objective of this VI Classification Research project is to develop an evidence based, sport-specific classification system for athletes with a vision impairment for one sport (there are a few options). This is a requirement in order for sports to adhere to the International Paralympic Committee’s Code of Classification.

The project will entail collecting opinions from key stakeholders regarding the requirements for a new sport-specific classification system.

The project research team will perform data collections with able-sighted athletes in order to determine the Minimum Impairment Criteria.

The project research team will perform data collections with athletes with a vision impairment in order to determine the number of classes required for those deemed eligible to compete.

  • Some knowledge of vision is preferred but not essential.
  • Some knowledge of sport is preferred but not essential.
  • A knowledge of quantitative methodology is required, and qualitative methodology preferred.

For further information contact Peter Allen on [email protected].

Where you'll study

Cambridge

Funding

This project is self-funded.

Details of studentships for which funding is available are selected by a competitive process and are advertised on our jobs website as they become available.

Next steps

If you wish to be considered for this project, you will need to apply for our Optometry and Vision Sciences PhD. In the section of the application form entitled 'Outline research proposal', please quote the above title and include a research proposal.

Research Group

Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Centre

Proposed supervisory team

Prof Peter Allen

Prof Lee Smith

Theme

Sight loss and physical activity

Summary of the research project

We have previously developed a conceptual framework for informing physical activity (PA) interventions targeting adults with sight loss. The framework encourages researchers, practitioners and policy makers to take a holistic approach when developing PA interventions, which considers environmental influences on PA as well as individual influences. The framework also demonstrates how theories of behaviour change can be used to rationalise targeting different factors influencing PA among adults with sight loss. Based on the core concepts highlighted in the framework further work is required.

This study will further this work, developing the theoretical framework and working with all key stakeholders to promote and implement the framework principles. This will initially be at the local level, but the theoretical framework was developed to be scalable. Particular attention will be given to engaging women from ethnic minorities into suitable PA programs.

  • Some knowledge of vision is preferred but not essential.
  • Some knowledge of physical activity is preferred but not essential.
  • A knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methodology is required.

For further information contact Peter Allen on [email protected].

Where you'll study

Cambridge

Funding

This project is self-funded.

Details of studentships for which funding is available are selected by a competitive process and are advertised on our jobs website as they become available.

Next steps

If you wish to be considered for this project, you will need to apply for our Optometry and Vision Sciences PhD. In the section of the application form entitled 'Outline research proposal', please quote the above title and include a research proposal.