Summary: This fully funded PhD opportunity addresses a critical gap in obesity management. While GLP-1 medications are highly effective for weight loss, they pose a potential risk of excessive lean body mass loss and inadequate nutrient intake. This project will evaluate whether protein- and micronutrient-enriched shakes can support healthier weight loss by preserving muscle mass and improving overall nutritional status in patients enrolled in the PEACETIME programme.
Designation: PhD Researcher (Full-time)
Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Type | Funded PhD Opportunity |
| Faculty | Life and Health Sciences |
| Funding/Stipend | £21,805 per annum (for 3 years), covering tuition fees and a substantial Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) |
| Interview Date | 02 October 2026 |
| Preferred Start Date | 11 January 2027 |
Research Area: Life and Health Sciences (Nutrition, Pharmacotherapy, Public Health, and Clinical Research)
Location: Ulster University, Northern Ireland (with ties to the EU-funded PEACETIME programme across the island of Ireland).
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Academic Requirements: Hold or expect to obtain a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject. Equivalent qualifications (e.g., Lower Second Class Honours plus a Master’s with Distinction) or a portfolio of significant professional experience in lieu of academic qualifications may be considered.
- Desirable Criteria: A qualification in Dietetics, or experience in human intervention studies or dietary assessment.
- Residency/Status Requirements: Must be a UK National, Irish National, or have settled status, pre-settled status, or indefinite leave to remain/enter. Applicants must have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK, or Gibraltar for at least three years preceding the start date.
- Exclusions: Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or have been registered full-time on a doctoral programme for more than one year are NOT eligible.
Job Description:
As a PhD researcher, you will work within the landmark EU-funded PEACETIME initiative—a large-scale, interdisciplinary obesity management programme integrating dietetic, medical, and physical activity support.
- Key Responsibilities: Investigate whether protein shakes can help preserve muscle mass, improve nutritional status, and enhance wellbeing in patients on GLP-1 therapies.
- Skills Developed: You will gain hands-on experience in clinical trial delivery, nutritional assessment, body composition analysis (e.g., DXA), quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and implementation science.
- Collaboration: Work directly with a multinational nutrition company that is funding the proposal, providing access to specialist expertise, resources, and intervention products.
How to Apply:
- Applicants must submit their application online through the Application process for prospective research students.
- Applications must include a comprehensive and articulate personal statement.
- For inquiries, you can contact the lead supervisor, Dr. Ruth Price, or co-supervisors Professor Carel Le Roux and Professor Alexander Miras.
Last Date for Apply: Friday, 18 September 2026 at 03:00 PM.
