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Applications are currently invited for a full-time PhD studentship to be located jointly in the Schools of Education and Psychology at Queen's. The focus for the studentship is:

"The effects of universal preschool - and school-based education programmes in reducing prejudice and promoting respect for diversity among children aged 3-11: A systematic review and meta-analysis"

Supervisors: Professor Paul Connolly (School of Education) and Dr Clifford Stevenson (School of Psychology)

The Studentship is full-time for three years and covers the cost of fees and an annual maintenance grant.  The systematic review will be registered with the international Campbell Collaboration and additional support will be provided by the Education Coordinating Group, based at the Peabody Research Institute, Vanderbilt University, USA. Opportunities will also be available to spend time at Vanderbilt to gain additional training in systematic reviewing and meta-analysis.

Previous experience of systematic reviews and meta-analysis are not required as full training will be given to the successful applicant.  However, applicants should have a competent grasp of quantitative methods and statistical analysis using software such as SPSS, including applying multivariate techniques such as multiple regression and factor analysis.

The deadline for the receipt of completed applications is 22 February 2013.  As part of the application process, applicants are required to submit a proposal of up to 2,000 words (including references) in relation to how they would undertake the above research project.  In relation to this specific project, the proposal should include:

- some discussion of the existing research evidence on the development of prejudice among young children and what is known about the effectiveness of different approaches to reducing this; and
- some appreciation of what a systematic review and meta-analysis is and the key methodological issues that will need to be considered.

As regards the latter, applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the Campbell Collaboration website for examples of title registrations, protocols and full systematic reviews published. Details of how to apply can be found here

For further information please contact Professor Paul Connolly

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