The determinants of sexual orientation inequalities in health.

Overview

The PhD aims to develop theoretical models for variation in the demand for health across sexual orientation groups and test hypotheses generated therein. The project will provide insights into the causes of inequalities in health by sexual orientation, helping to drive forward research that could help inform and shape healthcare policy.

About this opportunity

There are inequalities in health by sexual orientation groups, such inequalities are unjust and require informed responses by policymakers. However, the underlying causes of such inequalities are not well understood.

The PhD project will develop theory with regards to the determinants of such inequalities. This will involve adapting existing theoretical models on the demand for health, using insights from the literature. Hypotheses from this can then be tested using appropriate data from surveys such as the UK Household Longitudinal Survey or the GP Patient Survey.

The findings will provide insight into the drivers for inequalities in health and highlight where inequity may be anticipated. Ultimately, such research could help inform future policymaking that aims to provide a fair and just level of health, regardless of sexual orientation.

The University of Liverpool has a Health Economics and Equity at Liverpool (HEEL) research group where the student will benefit from both informal and formal training in health economics. HEEL has health economists from a range of backgrounds and with various research interests, providing opportunities for the student to develop the project and build collaborations in various ways across the health economics discipline (e.g., with regards to public health, healthcare, social care, and valuing health).

The first year of the study will involve reviewing the literature on the existence of health inequalities by sexual orientation in England and developing an understanding of the theoretical models for the demand for health. In the second year the student will adapt models of the demand for health informed by their reading. During the second and third year the student will test any hypotheses generated by their theoretical model, it is expected these applications will include a paper of independent research.

Who is this for?

Applicants should have a Postgraduate degree in Health Economics or Economics, which should include training in applied economics and econometrics. Research experience would be desirable.

Applicants should also have a UK 2.1 Honors degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject.

Applicants will also need to ensure they meet the University’s English language requirements, details can be found here: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/courses/public-health-phd

How to apply

1. Contact supervisors

To enquire about this project please email your CV and cover letter, stating the project title and reference number to william.whittaker@liverpool.ac.uk. Please ensure you note any training in applied economics, econometrics and health economics.

Please note applications will be reviewed and potentially suitable applicants will be invited to have a discussion with the proposed supervisor prior to submitting a formal application through the University of Liverpool Application Portal.

Supervisors:

Dr William Whittaker	William.whittaker@liverpool.ac.uk	https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/people/william-will
Dr Elizabeth Camacho	Elizabeth.Camacho@liverpool.ac.uk	https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/people/elizabeth-camacho

2. Prepare your application documents

You may need the following documents to complete your online application:
- A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
- University transcripts and degree certificates to date
- Passport details (international applicants only)
- English language certificates (international applicants only)
- A personal statement
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact details for two proposed supervisors
- Names and contact details of two referees.
3. Apply

Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £5,006
Part-time place, per year - £2,503

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £31,250
Part-time place, per year - £15,650

Fees stated are for 2025/26 academic year

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this project, as well as general student living costs.

Funding your PhD

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan worth up to £30,301 to help with course fees and living costs.

There’s also a variety of alternative sources of funding. These include funded research opportunities and financial support from UK research councils, charities and trusts. Your supervisor may be able to help you secure funding.

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition fees and living expenses.

Duncan Norman Research Scholarship

If you’re awarded this prestigious scholarship, you’ll receive significant funding to support your postgraduate research. This includes full payment of your PhD fees and a cash bursary of £23,000 per year while you study. One award is available in each academic year.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for financial support worth up to £12,000 per year for up to three years of full-time postgraduate research (or up to five years part-time pro-rata).

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

Discover our full range of scholarships and bursaries.

Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Dr Will Whittaker