PhD Study : Exercise and the dynamic postprandial state

Summary

Consistent evidence indicates that bouts of aerobic exercise, both before and prior to the ingestion of high-fat meals (HFM), can ameliorate some of the unfavourable effects to postprandial metabolism (Katsanos, 2006; Peddie et al., 2012; Burns et al., 2015). Exercise promotes a moderate reduction in postprandial triglycerides (TG) and may exert a controlling influence on redox homeostasis (oxidative stress) and inflammation (McClean et al., 2007). However, recent findings from our lab show, for the first time, increased DNA damage after a HFM accompanied by an increase in markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, which all remained elevated following a bout of moderate exercise (Brown et al., under review).

Several studies have reported that high intensity exercise, including intermittent protocols, is effective in attenuating the postprandial response to HFM (Gabriel et al, 2012; Burns et al., 2015; Yang et al, 2018) via enhanced postprandial fat oxidation rates and reduced TGs to a greater extent than moderate exercise (Lee et al, 2018; Yang et al, 2018).  To date, no studies have sought to explore the effect of acute and chronic high intensity exercise, including interval / time efficient bouts, on HFM ingestion, markers of DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, research investigations adopting resistance or strength training protocols in both acute and chronic settings are comparatively scare and require further exploration.

This project will examine the impact of acute and chronic exercise on postprandial metabolism in relation to:

1.Oxidative stress, DNA damage and inflammation

2.Exercise type, intensity and timing

This studentship will involve several linked studies using several experimental techniques. This PhD project would suit a graduate from Sport and Exercise Science, Biomedical Science, Human Nutrition or a related area. Applicants should have good knowledge of Exercise Physiology and experience of wet laboratory techniques is advantageous. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively through oral and written means is also desirable.

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.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living