Systemic Sustainability as a Quotient in Health Care Decision
Eligibility: UK/International (including EU) graduates with the required entry requirements
Duration: Full-Time – between three and three and a half years fixed term
Application deadline: 27 May 2025
Interview date: Will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates
Start date: September 2025
For further details contact: Dr Stephen Spooner
Introduction
The United Kingdom’s net zero target for 2050 - with many regions striving for even earlier dates - demands an integrated, systems-based approach that unites innovative methodologies with advanced technology. The NHS, as the nation’s largest employer, is not only vital in delivering healthcare but also a significant source of national CO₂ emissions. In fact, it contributes 5% of the nation’s total emissions and, apart from major energy or manufacturing sites, accounts for 78% of emissions from fixed-location enterprises. Additionally, the manufacture of medicines and health technologies is closely linked with bulk chemical and metals industries, meaning that treatment decisions have a notable impact on the overall carbon footprint of healthcare delivery. Complexities arising from a nationalised system and ethical imperatives further compound the challenges of implementing environmental interventions.
Project details
This PhD project aims to blend traditional healthcare evaluation techniques with quantitative approaches from sustainable engineering. It focuses on developing robust clinician-facing intervention models by integrating the measurement of healthcare impacts with systems engineering and decision-making tools. Initially, the project will examine interventions within NHS trusts that exceed standard clinical environmental policies. A comprehensive map will be created, detailing the intended actions, implemented measures, and actual outcomes in line with current legislation.
An ethical framework will be devised to protect patient information, ensure quality care, and integrate sustainability metrics effectively. The study will further develop three supply chain case studies within UK healthcare:
- The manufacture and supply of medicines and medical devices
- Healthcare infrastructure and the acquisition and utilisation of capabilities
- Operational practices within NHS trusts
Utilising either anonymised real data or simulated data, the project will test the application of future targeted policies, aiming to predict their real impact on healthcare systems. This research presents an exceptional opportunity to bridge the fields of manufacturing and healthcare, offering the potential to influence both policy and practice without either discipline impeding the other.
Funding
Tuition fees and bursary
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral Researcher College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
- A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
Additional Requirements:
A background in science, engineering, or mathematics is essential.
How to apply
Please submit an initial expression of interest application, including supporting documentation and a 2,000‐word statement detailing how your expertise and interests align with the project.
Please contact for informal enquiries: Dr Stephen Spooner
Apply to Coventry University
