PhD scholarship students join USW as applications open for 2026

Two PhD students have started their studies at the University of South Wales (USW), funded by the Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) – an initiative to train the next generation of social scientists to address societal issues.

Alessia Evans is beginning her PhD, entitled ‘A co-productive approach to developing and evaluating the acceptability and feasibility of a social engagement intervention for men living in extra-care’.

She said: “My research aims to develop a social engagement intervention for ageing men living in long-term care settings. The project builds on my Masters by Research, which explored the barriers to and facilitators of social participation among male extra-care tenants. That study found that men – a minority group in care – tend to be less socially active than female tenants, yet thrive both physically and mentally when engaged in group activities with other men. 

“Ultimately, I hope to develop a practical and accessible template that could be implemented across care settings in the UK to support men’s social engagement and wellbeing, thereby enhancing healthy ageing. I also hope this work will contribute to addressing the “male loneliness epidemic” – and in doing so, make a meaningful difference for future generations of men. 

“I feel incredibly grateful to have been awarded this studentship. It feels especially meaningful, considering I didn’t get into university after my A levels and only began my academic journey at the age of 26. I never imagined I’d be the type of person to undertake a PhD, let alone secure a funded studentship to research something I’m so passionate about. It just goes to show what’s possible if you keep showing up, believe in yourself, and stay open to developing your skills and knowledge.”

While Maya Badham’s PhD is entitled ‘Investigating the psychological impact of Domestic Violence and abuse on human and canine victim-survivors’.

She said: “The human-canine bond can be characterised as a powerful connection built on trust, love, and companionship, yet in cases of domestic abuse, this bond often serves as a reciprocal and critical protective factor against the mental health consequences the abuser subjects their victims to.

“My research will explore how perpetrators of domestic abuse manipulate the human-canine bond to maintain power and control over families, and the physical and psychological impact on human and canine victim-survivors. While previous research shows the impact on adults and children in abusive households, our canine companions have not been afforded the same attention, despite having the emotional and cognitive capacity of a toddler, making them just as vulnerable to trauma responses.

“I hope this research lays the foundation for meaningful cross-sector changes in practice, promoting animal-inclusive approaches within whole-system and whole-family strategies for abuse prevention and intervention.

“This studentship has transformed the trajectory of my career, enabling me to pursue a PhD I could not have undertaken without this support. I am deeply grateful that the WGSSS recognised not only my personal potential to contribute to this field, but also saw the value of my research.”

Professor Martin Steggall, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at USW, said: “We are proud to be part of the Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences. USW has a long history of impactful research in social sciences, evidenced by the fact we were top in Wales for impact in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

“We pride ourselves on the strength of our research and the opportunities and experiences we provide for our students, and being part of the WGSSS will further enhance this.”

The WGSSS, part of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), is now open for 2026 applications. The deadline is 11 December 2025.

A collaboration between seven universities, WGSSS offers a unique platform for aspiring researchers. The program will provide cutting-edge training across 15 thematic pathways, including those focused on social care, social work and social policy, criminology, and law. Students will benefit from extensive support, world-class research supervision, and practical placements to ensure they are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to public policy and community well-being.

Funded by the ESRC, the partnership will offer around 360 studentships over five years, creating a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community. Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Welsh Government and Natural Resources Wales, the WGSSS also ensures real-world impact, offering students opportunities to engage directly with decision-makers and stakeholders.

This studentship is designed to support individuals from all backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. For those seeking to pursue a PhD in social sciences, this programme provides not only financial support but also access to an unmatched network of academic and professional resources across Wales.

For more information, visit the WGSSS website. To apply for a studentship at USW, please use the following links:

Studentship in Social Care, Social Work and Social Policy

Studentship in Criminology