Although the level of alcohol use in the middle/old aged population has been estimated there is little evidence on the attitudes of such a group towards alcohol, drinking and the potential public health messages. In response to this increased prevalence, interventions aimed at changing drinking behaviour have been developed although these have been rather parsimonious in their approach and reach.

The purpose of this cross sectional study is to examine alcohol consumption in middle and late adulthood. Specifically to establish: a) level of consumption of alcohol in the target populations; b) to explore views and attitudes towards drinking in both middle aged and older adults; c) to explore any potential differences between rural and urban areas for both levels of consumption and views and attitudes regarding drinking alcohol and d) develop, deliver and evaluate potential public health interventions for such a population.

This PhD studentship is being supported by both the University of Worcester and the Worcester Public Health Directorate.

Qualifications needed :

Candidates will be expected to have suitable academic qualifications but additional specialised training will be available as required.

Essential:

Applicants should have (or expect to receive) a First or Upper Second Honours Degree in psychology, health studies or closely related and relevant discipline;

Proficiency in oral and written English;

Computer literacy;

Ability to organise and meet deadlines;

Good interpersonal skills;

Ability to work independently and contribute to a team;

Commitment and an enthusiastic approach to completing a higher research degree

Experience in the use of non-invasive analytical techniques (e.g. G.I.S.; geophysics)

Interest in public health and/or health psychology;

Desirable:

Education to Masters Degree level in public health, health psychology or related discipline;

Knowledge of the public health or health psychology interventions;

Full UK Driving Licence.

It is an expectation that the successful candidate will participate fully in the activities of the Institute of and gain additional experience in the teaching and research environment of the University.

Application forms are available at:

For further information or an informal discussion on this project, please contact Professor Dominic Upton (d.upton@worc.ac.uk)

If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Mrs Helen Tabinor, Graduate Research School Manager (tel: 01905 855012, email: h.tabinor@worc.ac.uk).

Completed application forms should be sent by email to: research@worc.ac.uk

research@worc.ac.uk or sent to: Graduate Research School, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, Worcester, WR2 6AJ, UK

For further details:

Website link:

Tags: Adults, Aged, Alcohol, Middle, PhD, Studentship, UK, University, Use, Worcester