Using fibre from natural food products to optimise gut physiology and microbiology in constipation

An exciting 3-year PhD studentship relating to diet and constipation is available for graduates with a BSc (First or Upper Second) or MSc (Distinction or Merit) in nutrition, dietetics, medicine or physiology. Previous research experience or relevant experience of working with people would be an advantage.

The studentship will commence in January 2019 and will be based at the Waterloo Campus of King’s College London, supervised by Professor Kevin Whelan. The studentship will include the opportunity to examine the association between the gut microbiome and its response to a dietary intervention. Optimising gut transit and the microbiome are important to the maintenance of gut health.

The primary aim of this PhD is to investigate the effect of a mixture of natural food products in constipation compared to a control group. The PhD will include a large randomised controlled trial with physiological (transit time), microbiological (16S rRNA), metabolomics (NMR) and dietary endpoints, all of which will be the responsibility of the PhD student.

Eligibility criteria:
• MUST hold a BSc (First or Upper Second) or MSc (Distinction or Merit) in nutrition, dietetics, medicine or physiology.
• Exceptional critical thinking, organisational skills and communication skills.
• Eligible for UK/EU university tuition fees.

Specific questions about the PhD application (should you have any) can be made to Professor Kevin Whelan and Dr Eirini Dimidi at: [Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed]

To apply, please email the following to [Email Address Removed]:
(1) Full CV, including breakdown of the marks for your BSc and/or MSc, and details of the research project(s) in which you have been involved, plus the name and contact details of 2 referees, ideally one should be an academic referee (referees will be approached for shortlisted candidates, unless specifically requested not to on the CV).
(2) Supporting statement of no more than one page explaining why you are applying for this PhD, your interests in this specific PhD, how your skills and experience relate to this area and your career objectives.