Insects have been used as a source of dietary protein for many years in East-Asian and African populations and more recently the interest in this potential protein source has been growing in Western countries due to the issues outlined above and increased awareness of animal welfare issues in the food chain. However, up until now there is no clear evidence that insect-derived protein has the same nutritional properties as it’s animal counterpart. This current PhD project therefore aims to determine the potential of insects as a viable alternative to animal-derived proteins for human consumption. You will compare bioavailability and subsequent anabolic and endocrine effects of an insect protein with a well characterised animal protein in healthy human participants. This project will be the first to examine the acute metabolic and hormonal responses to insect protein in direct comparison with animal protein in humans. You will also examine the use of insect protein in combination with a resistance training programme on skeletal muscle protein synthesis, the project will enable direct comparison between healthy young and healthy older individuals. In addition, you will also be evaluating attitudes toward the consumption of insects and knowledge of the environmental and ethical issues in the production of insects and animal-based protein for food.
The project will give unique insights into the potential benefits of insect-based protein and barriers to consumer acceptance of insect-based products. The project will impact not only the food production industry but will have direct benefit to the environment and inform food production in a move towards reducing the carbon footprint of the food industry, reduce food waste and provide a valuable source of protein for an increasing human population.
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A 3.5-year fully funded studentship open to applicants worldwide starting in October 2022. Funding includes stipend, full fees and a research grant.
More information on the School of Biosciences and Medicine.
Entry requirements
A First or Upper Second-Class Honours degree from the UK (or equivalent qualification from international Institutions) or Masters degree in a relevant subject area. English language requirements: An IELTS Academic of 6.5 or above with 6 in each individual category (or equivalent qualification from other agencies).
How to apply
Applications should be submitted via the online application portal for Biosciences and Medicine PhDs.
This project is part of the Faculty-funded studentship scheme and you can express interest in one or two of the projects available via this scheme. When completing your application, in place of a research proposal, please provide a 1-page (maximum) document containing the reference numbers(s), project title(s) and supervisor name(s) of the project or two projects you have selected, together with an explanation of your motivations for wanting to study for a PhD and your reasons for selecting the project(s) you have chosen.
The reference number for this project is FHMS PL - BM - 08.
For those interested in the project described above, we strongly encourage informal enquiries to be sent to Dr Ralph Manders ([Email Address Removed]).
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