We have awarded PhD scholarship grants to Loughborough University and The Open University for doctoral candidates with lived experience of disability to undertake research into accessible transport.
Our PhD Scholarship Project
Following a Pilot PhD Scholarship project at Coventry University’s National Transport Design Centre (NTDC), we are extending the project to include more universities and to expand its scope.
The research areas now include accessible transport policy and practice, alongside transport design.
At The Open University, their doctoral candidate will be partnering with charity and campaign group Transport for All, who will provide support and expertise for the research. Loughborough University is currently recruiting their doctoral candidates.
New universities join current cohort
The announcement follows PhD scholarship grants being awarded, earlier this year, to prospective candidates at UCL, Newcastle University and University of Westminster.
These doctoral studies will explore augmented reality in mobile navigation for those with visual impairments and develop design practice to create policy and guidance for accessible travel spaces.
Now that there is PhD scholarship grant students across six universities, we are looking to create a peer network in the future.
“Research led by disabled people”
Rachael Badger, Director of Performance and Innovation at the Motability Foundation, said: “We are delighted to be awarding grants through our PhD Scholarship project to support more disabled people to use their lived experience to undertake research into transport design, policy and practice.
Research led by disabled people, with an understanding of the complex issues faced in travel, is key to finding accessible transport solutions.”
“Natural interest and passion”
Stephanie, a doctoral candidate at Coventry University, has shared her experience of taking part in the Pilot PhD Scholarship project: “Working in a research topic that is really close to my heart and having relevant lived experience means I have a natural interest and passion in the work I’m doing, and so it is easier for me to grow professionally as a researcher and advocate.”
Apply and learn more
Find out more and apply for a PhD Scholarship at Loughborough University.
Keep up to date with the PhD Scholarship project and future funding opportunities.
