Faster, higher, older: multidisciplinary research into the effects of sarcopenia in humans

There is increasing interest in health issues related to the ageing process; a key feature of which is sarcopenia, the reduction of muscle mass and strength. Age-related sarcopenia is a complex multifactorial process that links natural ageing, life-style changes and dietary intake; this process is ill-defined with limited understanding. Whilst there has been improvement in knowledge of sarcopenia from an epidemiological perspective, and a move towards whole life studies, there remain significant unexplained variations in the factors associated with its diagnosis, development, progression and management.

Loss of skeletal muscle has a compound effect on muscle strength and frailty, both of which contribute significantly to long-term health and impact on healthcare costs. Advanced sarcopenia is associated with physical frailty and increased difficulty in performing daily-tasks, and an increased probability of falling (Paddon-Jones et al, Am J Clin Nutr May 2008).

This project aims to determine the key life-style factors involved to age-related sarcopenia; the quantification of such factors. Using nutritional and exercise interventions we will investigate which factors may be able to slow or arrest this process.

About the Centre:
The Centre furthers the understanding of fundamental biological pathways and processes; applying biological sciences to advance diagnosis and prevention of disease.

Our aim is to enhance Coventry University’s reputation for evidence-based scientific research of excellent quality, across a range of areas and discipline boundaries, to create an inter-disciplinary continuum of expertise that extends and develops our understanding across Applied Biological and Exercise Sciences.

The University has considerable strengths in high quality publications in Applied Biological and Exercise Sciences, ranging from expertise in cell biology, genomic and molecular biology, biochemistry, safety pharmacology, physiology, physical activity and exercise. We currently have particular strengths in scientific research that investigates life processes to lay the foundation for advances in disease diagnosis and prevention.

This is a jointly funded PhD project between the Centre for Applied Biological and Exercise Sciences at Coventry University & University Hospitals Coventry & Warwick (UHCW) Human Metabolic Research Unit. The aim of this work is to translate the research findings of human intervention studies to inform healthcare solutions and life style modifications in adults.

Candidate Specification:
• a taught Masters degree in a relevant discipline, involving a dissertation of standard length written in English in the relevant subject area with a minimum of a merit profile: 60% overall module average and a minimum of a 60% dissertation mark
• the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a three-year period of study
• a minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component)

Additional items for candidate specification:
• High-calibre student, BSc/MSc 1st or 2:1 in Applied Physiology, Sport and Exercise science, Human biology/physiology, Dietetics or other relevant bioscience degree.
• Experience of working with human participants and biological laboratory skills would be an advantage.
• A good knowledge of statistical techniques to analyse relevant data sets.

How to apply:
Application form and covering letter, stating why the applicant would be suited to this specific project.
DO NOT COMPLETE THE PROJECT PROPOSAL SECTION OF THE APPLICATION FORM.

Start Date: January 2017

Duration of study: Either
Full-Time – three years fixed term
or
Part-Time – five years fixed term

Interview dates: Will be confirmed to short listed candidates