Exploring the role of employee well-being as a core human resource function
Employee well-being has gained increased attention in recent years, with organisations recognising the link between well-being and productivity, engagement, and reduced turnover. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether employee well-being should be a core HR function or remain a supportive initiative. This research will contribute to this debate by analysing the current positioning of well-being within HR practices and assessing the organisational implications of treating well-being as an integral part of HR.
This PhD research project aims to investigate whether employee well-being should be considered a core function of Human Resource Management (HRM), examining the impact of prioritising well-being on organisational outcomes, employee satisfaction, and HR's strategic role within organisations.
Given the exploratory nature of this research, a qualitative methodology will be emphasised to gain a deep understanding of organisational perspectives, practices, and outcomes related to employee well-being. Some quantitative analysis may be incorporated, such as employee surveys, to assess general attitudes towards well-being initiatives and measure perceived organisational support, job satisfaction, and engagement levels.
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in human resource management, organisational psychology, or organisational behaviour, with an interest in employee well-being and qualitative research methods. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for conducting in-depth interviews and focus groups with HR professionals and employees.
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:
- Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
- Click on the 'Apply here' button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
- Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.
Good luck!
This is a self funded topic
Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.
Meet the Supervisor(s)
Ning Wu - Ning is a Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in OB/HRM at Brunel Business School. Ning started her higher education career as a university lecturer in Economics in Peking University China, then conducted research in Labour Economics at Oxford University as a senior member. Before joining Brunel Business School, Ning held a lecturer post in HRM at Nottingham Business School.
Related Research Group(s)
Human Resource Management and Organization Behaviour - The group's five main themes of research include excellence in workplace innovation, diversity, team work, social inclusion, and employee selection.