We have awarded three doctoral candidates with lived experience of disability a PhD Scholarship grant to undertake research into accessible transport.
The studies will take place at UCL, Newcastle University and the University of Westminster.
Pilot Scholarship Programme
In 2021, we began our Pilot Scholarship Programme to research accessible transport design at Coventry University’s National Transport Design Centre (NTDC).
The programme currently supports three PhD students at Coventry University, to work on complex transport issues, directly relevant to their own experience. They are researching rail travel and aviation.
Extending the Programme
We are excited to now extend the PhD Scholarship Grant Programme to include more universities and to expand the scope of the programme.
The research areas now include accessible transport policy and practice, alongside transport design.
Rachael Badger, our Director of Performance and Innovation, said: “We are delighted to be awarding grants through our PhD Scholarship Programme 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.”
“A research topic that is really close to my heart”
Stephanie, a doctoral candidate at Coventry University, has shared her experience of taking part in the Pilot Scholarship Programme: “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.”
Next steps
The new doctoral studies will explore the use of augmented reality in mobile navigation for those with visual impairments and develop design practice to create policy and guidance for accessible travel spaces.
With students across four universities, we will look to create a peer network to provide students with mutual support, as well as opportunities for knowledge exchange, mentoring and connections with industry stakeholders.
Learn more about our PhD Scholarship Programme and any future funding opportunities.
