MRes: Embedding TEchnology in Care Homes

University of Glasgow seeks an MScR student to study digital maturity in remote and rural care homes, using case studies to support safer technology use.

The Embedding TEchnology in Care Homes (ETECH) project is a 30-month, NIHR-funded study that will examine digital maturity in care homes across the UK to co-design practical tools to support safe, person-led digital development. The project responds to growing policy emphasis on digital transformation in social care, alongside recognition that the sector is diverse, resource-constrained and uneven in its digital readiness.

Associated MScR project: Remote and rural digital maturity

An embedded Master of Science by Research (MScR) student will undertake a focused study on digital maturity in remote and rural care homes. Remote and rural services often face distinctive challenges, including reduced access to technical support, and greater geographic isolation. At the same time, digital solutions may offer particular benefits in these contexts, such as enabling virtual clinical input, family contact and peer support.

The MScR student will conduct 3-4 case studies in remote and rural care homes, drawing on interviews and observational methods. The study will examine:

• Infrastructure constraints (e.g., connectivity and hardware).
• Workforce digital skills and confidence.
• Leadership approaches to digital strategy.
• Experiences of residents and families.
• The role of digital tools in mitigating or exacerbating geographic inequities.

Findings will complement the main ETECH case studies and provide comparative insight into how context shapes digital maturity. The student will contribute to academic outputs and produce a focused dissertation on rural digital readiness.

The MScR student will join the Palliative and End of Life Care Research Group at the University of Glasgow. This is a supportive team focused on improving palliative care through research. The group has strong links with policy and practice across Scotland, meaning the student’s work will sit within a wider programme of impactful, real-world research.

The student will be closely supported by experienced supervisors with expertise in community nursing and qualitative methods. They will be welcomed into an active community of postgraduate and early career researchers. There will be opportunities to attend seminars, training events and research development workshops.

The University of Glasgow offers an excellent environment for postgraduate study, with a strong reputation for research excellence and meaningful societal impact. Students benefit from high-quality research training, interdisciplinary collaboration and a culture that is ambitious, inclusive and supportive.

Person specification

Essential criteria:

• Registered professional qualification in nursing, an allied health profession, or social care (SSSC or equivalent if working elsewhere in the UK). Pre-registration students in their final year of study are also eligible to apply.
• Experience of working with people living with dementia
• A first degree (2:1 or above) or degree with postgraduate study such as a PgDip or PgCert
• Ability to work independently and manage a small qualitative research project with supervision

Desirable criteria:

• Completion of a theoretical research methods module

Due to the focus of the project, the student will be required to travel to care home sites across Scotland for data collection. This will involve being willing and able to travel for up to two days at a time. The student will not undertake site visits alone and will be supported by members of the ETECH research team.