Obesity-mediated dysregulation in the expression and action of myostatin: A novel intrinsic mechanism that contributes to age-related sarcopenia and sensitivity to insulin

Research interests/description of main research theme:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated PhD student interested in carrying out cutting-edge biomedical research in collaboration with a leading industrial partner. This 3-year studentship is available to work under the supervision of Dr Kostas Tsintzas at the School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, UK; Dr Simon Jones at the Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, UK; and Dr Leonidas Karagounis at the Institute of Nutritional Science, Nestlé Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland.

The project involves the application of a wide range of biochemical, molecular and cellular biology techniques (including primary human cell culture, transcriptomic analysis and bioinformatics) in adipose and skeletal muscle tissues obtained from healthy volunteers from different age and weight categories. This approach will help us understand the cellular mechanism(s) by which adiposity and fat accumulation within human skeletal muscle affect the regulation of the protein myostatin (a known negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass), how this contributes to sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass with age) and the development of insulin resistance (one of the hallmarks of the metabolic syndrome), and to identify candidate therapeutic strategies. The knowledge generated from this work will have important implications for the development of interventions to improve musculoskeletal ageing, one of the biggest health challenges of the 21st century.

The PhD student will benefit from working in two highly regarded, independent laboratories in UK acquiring a range of human in vivo and ex vivo research skills. The student is expected to spend considerable time (6-9 months) in the research laboratories of Nestle, the world’s largest Nutrition, Health and Welfare company, receiving training in transcriptomic analysis and bioinformatics.

Students with a strong background in human physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related subject are strongly encouraged to apply for this post. Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper-second class Honours degree or equivalent in one of the above subject areas. Laboratory research experience (either through work placements, final year project or completion of a Master’s degree) would be advantageous.

Person Specification

Applicants should have a strong background in human physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related subject area, and ideally a background in metabolic physiology/biochemistry. They should have a commitment to research in musculoskeletal health and ageing and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject.

How to apply

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Kostas Tsintzas [[Email Address Removed]; Tel. +44 (0)115 8230 127], or Dr Simon Jones [[Email Address Removed]; Tel. +44 (0)121 371 3224].

Applications should be directed to Dr Lisa Fuller (email [Email Address Removed] ). To apply, please send:
• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter stating the project you are applying for and highlighting your research experience/capabilities

The interview date will be Monday the 5th of March 2018.