Postgraduate research
The co-design of an educational toolkit to support behaviour change and CGM engagement in adults living with type 2 diabetes
Qualification: PhD
Department: Population Health Sciences
Application deadline: 3 September 2026
Start date: 1 October 2026
Overview
Supervisors:
- Dr Michelle Hadjiconstantinou [email protected]
- Professor Pratik Choudhary
- Professor Gregory Maniatopoulos
Project Description:
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGMs) devices are increasingly being implemented in the management of type 2 diabetes. However, existing research has focused predominantly on clinical outcomes (glycaemic control) and technology uptake. Little attention has been given to the social and psychological consequences of CGM use, including device visibility, technology-related anxiety, experiences of stigma, and inequities in access and utilisation.
The first aim of this studentship is to investigate how CGM devices influence experiences of stigma, psychosocial wellbeing, and diabetes self-management behaviours among adults living with type 2 diabetes. This activity will help identify determinants to behaviour change to inform the development of an educational toolkit.
Evidence suggests that benefits of CGM use are maximised when it is accompanied by behavioural support. Therefore, the second aim of this studentship is to co-develop a theory- and evidence-informed educational toolkit to support effective CGM use and sustainable behaviour change. The acceptability of this toolkit will be evaluated to support its future implementation in the real-world.
The student will be supported by our multi-disciplinary team based at the Diabetes Research Centre and ARC, who have a tracked record in behaviour change, wearable technology and implementation.
This proposal will consist of 3 work packages (WP):
WP1: Understanding the impact of CGMs on diabetes stigma and self-management behaviours
Aim: To carry out a formative qualitative study to explore how CGMs influence experiences of stigma, identity, and self-management among adults living with Type 2 diabetes. This study will also explore the intersectionality between CGM and cultural beliefs in ethnic minority groups.
WP2: Understanding healthcare professional perspectives on CGM impact on stigma and behaviour change
Aim: To carry out a formative qualitative study to explore healthcare professionals' perceptions, attitudes, and practices regarding the provision of CGMs in the type 2 diabetes population. This study will explore what assumptions influence CGM recommendations, how are engagement and capability discussed, what drives access inequalities.
WP3: Co-design and pilot an educational toolkit to support CGM engagement and behaviour change in people with type 2 diabetes
Aim: To co-design and pilot an evidence-informed toolkit that supports equitable and stigma-sensitive implementation of CGMs to optimise CGM engagement and long-term behaviour change. This educational toolkit may include information resources, peer-support materials, and strategies for managing device visibility in public settings.
References
Kwon SY, Moon JS. Advances in Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Clinical Applications. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul). 2025 Apr;40(2):161-173. doi: 10.3803/EnM.2025.2370.
Battelino T. et al. The use of continuous glucose monitoring in people living with obesity, intermediate hyperglycemia or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. 2025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2025.112111.
Peyyety V,et al. Barriers and Facilitators to Uptake of Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Youth. Sci Diabetes Self Manag Care. 2023 Dec;49(6):426-437. doi: 10.1177/26350106231205030.
Polonsky, W. H. et al. How CGM Use in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Leads to Glycemic Benefits: The Role of Medication and Behaviour Change. Endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism.2026, 9(3), e70236. https://doi.org/10.1002/edm2.70236.
Please refer to the application advice below.
Funding
Funding
The NIHR/CLS studentship provides
- 3 years UK tution fees
- 3 years stipend at UKRI rates. For 2026/7 this will be £21,805 per year paid in monthly instalments
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
Applicants must hold: 1st or 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent),in a relevent subject.University of Leicester English language requirements apply.
Informal enquiries
Informal enquiries
For project enquiries please email Dr Michelle Hadjiconstantinou [email protected]
How to apply
How to apply
To apply please use the Apply link at the bottom of this page and select September 2026.
With your application, please include:
- CV
- Personal statement explaining your interest in the project, your experience and why we should consider you
- Degree certificates and transcripts of study already completed and if possible transcript to date of study currently being undertaken
- Evidence of English language proficiency if applicable
- In the reference section please enter the contact details of your two academic referees in the boxes provided or upload letters of reference if already available. Referees cannot be anyone on the project supervisory Team.
- In the proposal section please provide the name of the supervisors and project title in the space provided (a proposal is not required)
- In the funding section please specify: CLS HS Hadji
Notes
Applications will not be considered after the closing date. We will advise you of the outcome by email.
Please check the spelling of your referee's email addresses carefully.
