Chronic respiratory disease affects over 550-million people worldwide and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Collectively, common and rarer obstructive airway diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia, contribute significantly to the overall prevalence of global non-communicable disease and are a major source of economic and societal burden. The health impact of chronic airways disease includes reduced exercise capacity, activity limitation, lower quality of life and heightened risk of co-morbid illness such as obesity, cachexia and cardiometabolic disease.
This novel research project aims to conduct multidimensional profiling across the spectrum of chronic obstructive airways diseases in order to characterise differences between sexes, identify novel biomarkers, and permit mechanism-based classification according to specific disease endotypes and phenotypes. The results will inform the design of future targeted therapeutic interventions to optimise disease specific clinical care and improve patient reported outcomes. The studentship provides an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and engaging multidisciplinary clinical and translational research group under the supervision of Dr Oliver Price (Exercise Physiology, University of Leeds), Professor Daniel Peckham (Academic Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Leeds), and Dr Ian Clifton (Respiratory Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust).
Eligibility
We are seeking a highly motivated student with an undergraduate degree (first or upper second-class honours) in a related discipline. A postgraduate master’s degree is desirable but not essential. Applicants with prior experience in respiratory physiology, integrative human physiology and/or exercise physiology are strongly encouraged to apply. Practical laboratory skills including pulmonary function, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, vascular scanning and/or experience of measuring body composition are also highly desirable.
The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.
How to apply
To apply for this scholarship opportunity applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.
- a full academic CV
- degree certificate and transcripts of marks
- a supporting statement detailing background and experience (maximum 2 pages of A4)
- Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)
To help us identify that you are applying for this scholarship project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;
- Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
- Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert
- For source of funding please state you are applying for a School of Biomedical Sciences Scholarship
As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Within the Faculty of Biological Sciences we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+; and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.
For informal discussions about this project please contact Dr Oliver Price
e: [Email Address Removed]
For further information about the application process please contact the Faculty Graduate School
e: [Email Address Removed]