Exploring the multi-organ benefits of Rapamune in relation to ageing physiology

PhD Description: Drug repurposing is an emerging avenue of research in the field of Geroscience; a field whose stated aim is to “accelerate research into the basic mechanisms driving ageing which could lead to improved clinical interventions”. Based at the University of Nottingham Medical School at Derby (UNMSD; Royal Derby Hospital Centre), this PhD is focussed on exploring the impact of an already-licensed mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor (which has been shown to attenuate sarcopenia in animal models of ageing) on muscle growth and function in both community-dwelling older adults and orthogeriatric patients. Results from this PhD will inform on the potential of mTOR inhibition to enhance the resilience of older adults, not only in relation to skeletal muscle but also other organ systems for which favourable pre-clinical data is emerging (i.e., the immune system). The successful candidate will learn a wealth of skills relating not only to human physiology studies/clinical trials but also state-of-the-art wet-lab techniques and data handling. 

Further Information:

Applicants should have either:

·       a minimum of a 2.1 in a relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., Exercise Science, Physiology, Biology), OR

·       a minimum of a 2.2 undergraduate degree and a relevant Master’s degree.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the programme lead, Prof Bethan Phillips (beth.phillips@nottingham.ac.uk) or to the principal supervisor, Prof Phil Atherton (Philip.Atherton@nottingham.ac.uk).

To apply, candidates should send their CV and a short cover letter (<1000 words) outlining why they are applying for this PhD to: beth.phillips@nottingham.ac.uk. The email subject line should be: “DMT PHD APPLICATION”. Candidates may apply for more than one of the PhD’s that form part of this programme, but should make this known in their cover letter. Candidates should also provide the contact details for 2 referees one of whom should be their most recent employer or academic supervisor. 

Closing Date for Applications: Monday April 22nd 2024, 10:00am

Provisional Interview Dates: 28th and 29th May 2024

PhD Start Date: 1st October 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter.