PhD Study : Gut microbiome resilience – is the emergence of intest pathobionts determined by poor diet?”

Summary

Diets rich in fruit and vegetables are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases.  Diet is also known to alter both the composition of the gut microbiome and the bioactivity of faecal water. Consequently, a diverse diet is important as it will modulate microbiome diversity and metabolic capability; this may increase resistance to dysbiosis and the emergence of gut pathogens such as Clostridium difficile. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables results in greater molecular diversity in terms of types and quantities of dietary fibers and (poly)phenols consumed.

We will explore the relationship between diet and gut microbiome resilience, determining whether the emergence of intestinal pathobionts is effected by diet quality. We hypothesize that diet-derived compounds and/or their microbial metabolites will modify the colonic milieu and alter the pathogenicity of these microbes.

This project, which will require the candidate to spend significant time at both Ulster University and at FEM laboratories, will provide training in state of the art in vitro models, metagenomics and targeted metabolomics, and measure how both nutrient diversity and exposure to antibiotics impacts on key metabolic processes mediated by microbial guilds responsible for stable network regulation within the gut microbiome. Using the latest advanced ecological models, we will generate new understanding of how diet can be used to support microbiome homeostasis and self-regulation and prevent the emergence of pathobionts like C. difficile, a significant gut pathogen especially in the elderly.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Fondazione Edmund Mach

This scholarship is co-funded by Fondazione Edmund Mach and Ulster University.

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £ 14,777 per annum for three years.

Non-home/EU applicants will only be eligible for the fees component of the studentship (no maintenance award is provided).