Protein Shake Strategies to Support Weight Loss: Effects on Muscle and Nutritional Status During GLP 1 Therapy.

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Summary

This proposal is externally funded by the mutinational nutrition company, who are covering tuition fees, stipend, and research costs. The collaboration also provides access to specialist expertise, resources, and intervention products, supporting the translational potential of the research.

Scientifically, the project addresses a timely and important gap in obesity management. GLP‑1 medications are widely recognised as effective therapies for weight loss, however, emerging evidence highlights a potential risk of excess loss of lean body mass and inadequate nutrient intake during rapid weight loss. This project will evaluate whether using a protein- and micronutrient-enriched shake can support healthier weight loss by preserving muscle mass and improving nutritional status. This aligns with current priorities in obesity research, particularly the shift from weight loss alone to the quality of weight loss and long-term health outcomes, supporting both academic and translational impact.

In addition, the project offers the student the opportunity to be involved in the PEACETIME programme, a large multidisciplinary EU initiative delivering real-world obesity care. Embedding the project within this programme provides access to an established patient population, clinical infrastructure, and comprehensive outcome data, as well as valuable training within one of the first large-scale integrated obesity care programmes in Northern Ireland and among the first of its kind in Ireland.

Research Context

Obesity is a chronic, progressive disease that affects health, wellbeing, and quality of life. New GLP‑1 obesity medications are highly effective at supporting weight loss. However, rapid weight loss can also lead to excess loss of muscle (lean body mass) and inadequate intake of essential nutrients, which may negatively affect overall health and long-term outcomes.

Aims of the PhD

This PhD project will explore whether protein shakes can support healthier weight loss. Specifically, it will investigate whether protein- and micronutrient-enriched shakes can help preserve muscle mass and quality, improve nutritional status, and enhance wellbeing in people living with obesity who are receiving GLP‑1 therapy as part of the PEACETIME programme.

The PEACETIME programme is a landmark EU-funded initiative and one of the first large-scale, interdisciplinary obesity management programmes delivered in primary care across the island of Ireland. By integrating dietetic, medical, and physical activity support within real-world healthcare systems, PEACETIME provides a unique opportunity to study how weight management interventions perform in everyday clinical practice.

Training Opportunities

The student will gain experience in clinical trial delivery, nutritional assessment, body composition analysis (e.g. DXA), quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and implementation science. There will also be opportunities to disseminate findings through publications and international conferences.

Overall, this research aims to support a more effective and sustainable model of weight loss that focuses not only on reducing body weight, but also on improving its quality and long-term health outcomes.

Why Apply?

This PhD offers an opportunity to:

Work at the interface of nutrition, pharmacotherapy, and public health
Contribute to real-world clinical research
Benefit from collaboration with the multi-national nutrition company
Be part of a landmark EU programme in obesity care
Develop skills relevant to careers in academia, healthcare, or industry

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

A qualification in Dietitics, or experience of human intervention studies or dietary assessment

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.

A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,805 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) is also available per annum.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a UK National, or

Have settled status, or

Have pre-settled status, or

Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

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.