Overview
This fully funded Masters and/or PhD in Psychology offers the opportunity to use psychology research to benefit society through real-world impact. It investigates how outdoor advertising, particularly for meat and dairy products is associated with health and environmental outcomes. The project will use experimental and statistical modelling methods to generate evidence to inform policy change around food, health and climate change.
About this opportunity
An exciting opportunity is available to undertake a fully funded MSc and PhD at the University of Liverpool. This project investigates how outdoor advertising is associated with health and environmental outcomes. In close partnership with Adfree Cities, the student will investigate:
1. The link between advertising exposure and mental health, using large-scale secondary data and modelling
2. How advertising shapes social norms for meat and dairy consumption
3. Whether counter-advertising campaigns (subvertising) can shift perceptions and consumption of meat and dairy products
The project offers the opportunity to develop skills in and apply a broad range of research methods including advanced statistical methods, computational modelling and experimental design, with the aim of generating policy-relevant evidence.
The student will work collaboratively within the Adfree Cities team throughout the project, with hybrid working and in-person placements, including an in-person placement timed to support the launch of a major campaign. Through this partnership, the student will gain hands-on experience in policy engagement, advocacy and public communication. They will contribute to live campaigns, attend meetings with stakeholders (e.g., local government) and help produce reports and policy recommendations.
The studentship includes comprehensive academic training through the University of Liverpool, with two entry pathways:
· 1+3.5 pathway: A one-year funded MSc in Research Methods followed by a 3.5-year PhD
· +3.5 pathway: Direct entry to the 3.5-year PhD for those with a relevant Master’s
Students on the 1+3.5 pathway will receive training in research design, statistics and programming. During the PhD, the student will lead the design and implementation of the project’s empirical studies, engage in policy-focused dissemination and produce a PhD thesis.