Project Title: The Impact of Weight Loss Interventions on Dementia Trajectory in Obesity
Project Description
Dementia incidence is on the rise and there is an increased risk of dementia in those with elevated BMI. The underlying mechanisms of increased and accelerated dementia risk in obesity have still to be elucidated. Increased inflammation, oxidative stress and decreased protein clearance are linked to cognitive decline with adipocyte dysfunction potentially having an additive effect. Weight loss interventions aim to decrease overall BMI in patients with obesity. Weight loss in this patient group has numerous beneficial health related effects, including lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Recently, weight loss has shown protective and preventative properties relating to dementia development and progression potentially due to reduced insulin resistance, diminished pro-inflammatory states and oxidative stress. The aim of this project is to determine the effect of weight loss on dementia status in patients with obesity to elucidate if weight loss by any means, or by particular method, impacts dementia trajectory.
The project will employ molecular and cellular techniques such as enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, Western blotting, and other standard molecular biology techniques. Opportunity will be provided to present data nationally and potentially internationally at relevant conferences. The candidate will work independently and within multidisciplinary teams.
Position
The successful candidate will undergo a Masters by research, with a planned PhD track, subject to satisfactory performance. This project will be under the supervision of Dr. Karen Coughlan, IT Sligo with clinical collaboration from the Obesity Immunology Research Group (Maynooth University, National Children’s Research Centre and St Vincent’s University Hospital).
Candidate Profile
Essential Qualifications/Experience
Excellent academic track record with MSc or honours undergraduate degree (2:1 minimum or equivalent) in a relevant biomedical science discipline (e.g. Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine/Biology, Immunology etc.).
Fluency in English (an IELTs score of 6.5 or above).
Desirable Qualifications/Experience
Previous relevant laboratory research experience
Essential Skills and Competencies
· Highly motivated, works well independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
· Strong interpersonal and communication (oral and writing) skills.
· Excellent organisational and analytical skills.
· Willingness to undertake training and career development.
Completed application form and CV should be sent to: [Email Address Removed]
Closing date/time: Wednesday the 22nd of October, 2021, 12 noon.
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