Impact of maternal obesity on offspring adipogenesis

Obesity is the major health crisis of this generation. Thus, research into the mechanistic basis behind obesity is of paramount importance. In recent years it has become apparent that obesity may have its origins in prenatal and early postnatal life. For instance, maternal obesity has been shown to enhance obesity susceptibility in offspring. Very little is known about how offspring obesity susceptibility might be programmed by maternal obesity. In collaboration with Dr Felino Cagampang (University of Southampton) and Prof Roger Cox (MRC Harwell) this PhD project will aim to assess the impact of maternal obesity during pregnancy and lactation on offspring adipogenesis, the process by which new fat cells (adipocytes) are formed during development. This project will also explore potential therapeutic strategies for treating obesity by modifying adipogenesis and adipocyte metabolism. This is an exciting novel project that has enormous clinical relevance and important implications for human health. 

School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading: 

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.   

Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces. 

In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities. 

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills. 

The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically. 

Eligibility:

Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in Biomedical or Biological Sciences or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Sciences at http://www.reading.ac.uk/pgapply.

Further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/biologicalsciences/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/PhD/sbs-phd.aspx