PhD Studentship in Medicine
University of Nottingham
United Kingdom

Institution: University of Nottingham – School of Medicine
Location: UK
Reference: MED2042
Closing Date: Monday, 13 April 2026
Provisional Interview Date: Friday, 24 April 2026
Start Date: 1 June 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
Funding: Self-funded

Supervisors

• Dr Thomas Bestwick-Stevenson – School of Medicine, Teaching Associate

• Professor Kimberely Edwards – School of Medicine, Professor of Sport, Exercise, and Nutrition Education (kimberely.edwards@nottingham.ac.uk)

Programme Overview

This PhD explores the effects of legal ergogenic aids on sporting performance in areas where knowledge is limited. The research may include:

• Systematic reviews to understand current evidence

• Experimental or observational studies examining the ergogenic aid’s effects

• Flexibility to adapt research methods according to student interests and supervisor guidance

The project may also build upon ongoing studies in the research group.

Eligibility

• Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g., Sport Science, Medicine, Rehabilitation, Public Health)

• Ideally, a relevant Master’s degree

• Interest in sports performance, applied physiology, or ergogenic aids

• Must be able to self-fund the PhD

Application Instructions

Send the following to Dr Thomas Bestwick-Stevenson at Thomas.Bestwick-Stevenson@nottingham.ac.uk with the subject line: “ERGOGENIC AID PHD APPLICATION”:

1. CV

2. Cover letter (<1000 words) explaining:

   • Why you are applying

   • What you can contribute to the PhD programme

3. Contact details for two referees (one academic or line manager)

Offers of study are conditional on receipt of two satisfactory references.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in sports science, performance optimization, and ergogenic aids research.

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