Identifying novel nutritional modulators of skeletal muscle metabolism

We are seeking a highly motivated individual for a 4-year competitively funded PhD studentship through the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP); a BBSRC-funded doctoral training programme. Further details of the MIBTP programme can be found here (http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/pgstudy/trainingprogramme/).

Endurance exercise, when performed regularly as part of a training program, leads to increases in whole-body and skeletal muscle-specific oxidative capacity. At the cellular level, this adaptive response is manifested by an increased number of oxidative fibers (Type I and IIA myosin heavy chain), an increase in capillarity and an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis. The increase in mitochondrial biogenesis (increased volume and functional capacity) is fundamentally important as it leads to greater rates of oxidative phosphorylation and an improved capacity to utilize fatty acids during sub-maximal exercise (1).
Given the importance of mitochondrial biogenesis for skeletal muscle performance, considerable attention has been given to understanding the molecular cues stimulated by endurance exercise that culminate in this adaptive response. This research has led to the identification of pharmaceutical compounds and small nutritional bioactive ingredients that appear capable of amplifying exercise-responsive signaling pathways in skeletal muscle (2, 3).
The aim of this project is to use an in vitro to in vivo pipeline to examine reported bioactive ingredients for their ability to alter metabolic function in skeletal muscle. In addition, we will characterise novel bioactive ingredients in vitro, detailing modes of action and efficacy for in vivo use. Collectively, therefore, this project provides an innovative bench to bedside approach that should appeal to students interested in skeletal muscle physiology, nutritional biochemistry and molecular biology. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in exercise physiology, metabolism and/or biochemistry, with a desire to establish and apply novel nutritional interventions to enhance exercise-induced skeletal muscle remodeling. In addition, strong communication skills and evidence of ability to engage with research participants is desirable.

The supervisory team overseas the training of a number of PhD students and mentor several Post-Doctoral Fellows within SportExR, where their respective laboratories are fully equipped with the facilities to deliver the outcomes proposed for this PhD programme. Thus, the successful candidate will be provided with unrivaled opportunities to study at the cutting-edge of exercise and nutritional science.

The link to apply for this position can be found here (http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/pgstudy/phd_opportunities/application/). Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Leigh Breen ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Andrew Philp ([Email Address Removed]) prior to submitting a formal application.