Two PhD Studentships in African Health, Economics and Diagnostics

Research Scope The studentship supports innovative, evidence-based research on any aspect of the economics of diagnostics across Africa, including (but not limited to): Political economy of diagnostic manufacturing, supply chains, and use Health and macroeconomic benefits of local and regional diagnostic manufacturing Economic evaluation and Health Technology Assessment (HTA) of diagnostics, including reimbursement and payment models Financing strategies, regulatory frameworks, and incentives to support sustainable diagnostic markets Access, affordability, data integration, and behavioural factors influencing the uptake and use of point-of-care diagnostics While the project has a strong African focus, comparative and global perspectives are welcome where relevant Person Specification ESSENTIAL CRITERIA Master’s degree in economics, political economy, or a closely related discipline, meeting LSE PhD entry requirements Strong analytical training in economic theory and/or applied policy analysis Ability to conduct research across micro (patient and provider behaviour, incentives, and decision-making), meso (health systems, markets, and organisational structures), or macro (policy, regulation, industrial strategy, and financing) levels Demonstrated interest in how incentives, institutions, and governance shape the development, adoption, scale-up, and impact of health commodities, ideally diagnostics Experience working with quantitative and/or policy-relevant datasets Excellent academic writing and communication skills Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a multidisciplinary research team The candidates would be expected to be based in the UK for the duration of the studentship Willingness to undertake international travel to work alongside collaborators (up to three weeks at a time) Entry Requirements Applicants should: Have a background in economics, health economics or political economy Meet LSE’s PhD entry requirements Hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree with: Overall average equivalent to LSE High Merit (minimum 65%) Dissertation mark of at least 65%