How do people seeking asylum experience and negotiate occupation within the context of occupational science? (HHS-2026-30)

About the project

About the Project This MSc research fee waiver project is funded by the University of Huddersfield. It would particularly suit occupational therapists with experience or interest in migration, asylum or occupational justice. The focus of the research is to explore how people seeking asylum experience and negotiate occupation - specifically disruption to occupation during the asylum process, using occupational science as the theoretical underpinning. It is also expected to consider priority occupational needs that support wellbeing, identity and participation and contextual factors. Restrictive asylum systems profoundly affect people’s everyday occupations, identities, routines, and opportunities for occupational participation. Asylum seekers often endure restricted access to work, education, social participation, and meaningful activities, limiting their ability to engage in occupations that support wellbeing, belonging, and identity formation. This aligns with established theoretical constructs within occupational science which argue that humans require opportunities for occupational engagement in order to thrive. Occupation plays a critical role in identity construction, particularly for those who experience trauma, loss, and displacement. However, the occupational identities and occupational participation of people seeking asylum, present with limited understanding in practice and policy discussions, impacting upon services to provide culturally relevant, trauma‑informed, occupation‑focused support. Research that explores the occupational needs of people seeking asylum can inform service design, contribute to more inclusive practice, and support commitment to occupational justice. This research intends to address a significant theoretical and evidence gap, challenge structural and occupational injustices, and strengthen the support offered to address health, participation, and wellbeing through occupation. It is anticipated that a review of the contemporary evidence base will be conducted to inform the selection of an appropriate qualitative methodology which will enable in depth, contextually situated understanding. For subject specific enquiries please contact: V.Barry@hud.ac.uk We encourage you to discuss your ideas with potential supervisors in advance of application. Type of Award: MSc by Research Eligibility: Applications are open to UK applicants only ; ideally with a First-Class Honours degree. Location: Huddersfield/Online Funding: Fee waiver Duration: 1 years full-time / 2 years part-time Application Details To apply please submit the documents listed below to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk in full by Friday 30 th October 2026 , including the following documents: A motivational email as to why you wish to apply for the scholarship, stating which project you are applying for. A 2,000-word research proposal outlining how you plan to undertake for the research topic you are applying for. For further guidance on writing a research proposal, please refer to the following webpage: https://www.hud.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/writing-a-research-proposal/ Full CV Provide copies of transcripts and certificates of all relevant academic and/or any professional qualifications. Provide references from two individuals – (at least one to be an academic reference) please contact your referees and ask them to send your references directly to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk from their work email address. (references can be submitted late but must be received by Friday 6 th November 2026). Proof of eligibility – e.g. scan of passport photo page Please state the research topic number and title in the subject area of the email Please email pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk with queries regarding eligibility and submitting documents. Informal enquiries about individual projects should be directed to the lead supervisor listed for each project.

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