PhD From Pitch to Parenthood (WGSSS)

PhD Studentship: From Pitch to Parenthood

The School of Sport and Health Sciences at Cardiff Metropolitan University are delighted to offer a fully funded Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) (ESRC DTP) studentship in the Sport and Exercise Science Pathway starting in October 2026.

Project title

From pitch to parenthood: Co-creating a female health system for professional footballers returning to play postpartum

Project partner

Women’s Super League

Project Description

This studentship will develop the first evidence-informed perinatal health system for professional women’s football, addressing the growing number of players navigating pregnancy and postpartum return-to-play. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining lived experience, stakeholder consensus, health surveillance and co-design methods, the project will provide actionable recommendations to inform the Women’s Super League policies and clinical practice. Central to the project is supporting and optimising return-to-play practices and improving maternal health and wellbeing across professional football.

The collaborative partner is the Women’s Super League Football, who are responsible for building the most competitive women’s football club competition through their two leagues for professional football in England.

Entry Criteria

To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equivalent to an UK honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.

Duration of study

Durations of study varies from 3.5 (PhD) to 1+3.5 (MSc + PhD) years full-time (or part-time equivalent). The duration study is dependent on prior research experience and training needs of the student which will be assessed by completing a Development Needs Analysis. We welcome applications for both full and part-time study.

Research in practice placement

All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent). All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations.

International Eligibility

WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.  

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

Assessment

Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview. As part of the interview process, applicants will be asked to give a short presentation and answer a series of panel questions.

How to apply

Applications should be received no later than 23 April 2026, including all required documents. Due to the volume of applications received, incomplete applications will not be considered.

All applications should be submitted via – Research Degree Scholarships – ESSHResearchdegrees@cardiffmet.ac.uk

Please include the following documents with your application:

WGSSS Studentship Application Form 2026
Academic CV (two pages maximum)
2 academic or professional references (candidates must approach referees themselves and include references with their application. The reference must detail the applicant’s research strengths).
Degree certificates and Transcripts (including translations if applicable)
If relevant, proof of English Language Competency (see institutional requirements for entry)

Funding

The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees, an annual tax-free living stipend of in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £20,780 for 2025-26 full-time) and includes access to a Research Training Support Grant. Full and part-time applications are welcomed. If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.