Understanding sexually transmitted infection risk in public sex environments

About the role

A 3-year full time PhD Studentship in public health funded by the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Blood-Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections is available within the Institute for Global Health. The studentship will commence from 1^st February 2026 onwards, under the supervision of Professor Cath Mercer.

Project title

Engaging with people at high risk of sexually transmitted infections in Public Sex Environments (PSE) in Rural and Coastal UK

Background

Rural and coastal sites in Lincolnshire are home to Public Sex Environment (PSE) sites which increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and are particularly used by men who have sex with men (MSM). There are also public sex events that are hosted in the county, and people travel from across the country to visit both events and PSE sites. The nature of the rurality and remoteness of these locations can make it hard for public health teams to engage, and indeed the rural and coastal effect can make the delivery of services to town and villages in these regions challenging.

Objectives

1. To understand sexual behaviour and access to services and support for MSM accessing PSE in rural and coastal sites in Lincolnshire
2. To explore the challenges of sexual health outreach and service provision for this population to inform and support future interventions
3. To develop a contextual understanding of the wider risk environment using visual methods

The student will work in the Institute for Global Health, within the NIHR HPRU in Blood-Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, a partnership between UCL and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) whose researchers conduct multi-disciplinary research on a range of STIs and blood-borne viruses with the aim of improving the health of the population and developing practical policy guidelines for those working in health protection and managing people living with these infections.

This Studentship presents a unique opportunity to conduct supervised research within the NIHR HPRU at UCL, to work in partnership with colleagues at the University of Lincoln and at UKHSA, and to be a part of an exciting and thriving research community within the sexual health field.

About you

Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree and/or a Master’s degree (preferably with a merit or distinction) in a relevant discipline, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

UCL offers may be conditional, subject to meeting the Global Health MPhil/PhD entry requirements, including English Language Requirements, which must be met before an Unconditional offer can be made.

What we offer

This studentship provides a starting stipend of £22,780 per annum and covers the cost of tuition fees based on the UK (Home) rate (£6,215).

Funding is not provided for paid parental and sick leave. Unpaid interruptions can be requested and may be supported.

Only students eligible for UK/Home fees status, can apply.

EU nationals should see this Student fee status page for information about eligibility for Home fees. If you are unsure whether or not you meet the eligibility criteria for Home fee status we would advise you contact the UCL Graduate Admissions Office for advice. See also to the UKCISA website (England: HE fee status).

How to Apply

Enquiries regarding the post can be made to Professor Caroline Sabin (c.sabin@ucl.ac.uk)

To apply, please send a current CV including the contact details of two professional referees as well as a 1-sided A4 cover letter to Professor Caroline Sabin (c.sabin@ucl.ac.uk)

Closing deadline for applications: Friday 5th December 2025.

Interview date/s: week commencing 15th December 2025.

The successful applicant will then be required to apply to and register on the Global Health research degree to take up the studentship.

Anticipated start date: 1st February 2026 to be confirmed subject to successful graduate application following interview.

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