To explore inflammation, vascular function and blood rheology, both at rest and in response to mental stress

This project can be offered either on a full-time or a part-time basis. Please email the prospective supervisor for more details.

Stressful events may trigger myocardial infarction. The mechanisms underlying this are not fully understood, but several factors have been suggested as potential pathways. My particular interest is related to inflammation, vascular function and blood rheology, both at rest and in response to mental stress. This will be explored in healthy participants as well as in people at risk for cardiovascular events (e.g., patients with rheumatoid arthritis). In addition, interventions to improve the response to mental stress will also be explored, such as an exercise intervention.

The laboratories of the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences are equipped to collect a variety of physiological data. The student will be taught to collect a variety of physiological data using several recording systems, such as several haemodynamic monitoring systems (e.g., ECG, impedance cardiography), ultrasound, and strain gauge plethysmography. The student will also be trained in phlebotomy, as well as blood sample preparation and analyses (e.g., standard ELISAs and viscometer). Previous experience with any of these systems would be an advantage, but expertise in all these areas is not expected at this stage. However, you would be expected to be committed to applying yourself to training in this multi-disciplinary approach.