The effect of a novel ketone esters and ‘climate adaptation’ drink in people with type 2 diabetes

Applications are invited for a fully-funded three and a half year PhD to commence in April 2025. 

The PhD will be based in the Faculty of Science and Health, and will be supervised by Dr Anthony Shepherd, Dr Maria Perissiou and Dr Thomas Williams.  

This project is funded by natiiv. The funding for the studentship includes the tuition fees and a stipend for 3 years (UKRI rate £19,237 for 2024/25). The project has a significant consumables budget which will enable us to examine different mechanisms depending on the candidate’s preferences and experience. The successful candidate will also receive full access to the Graduate School Development Programme, and the internal qualifications that enable applications for Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy. Finally, all department-wide development activities will be made available to the successful candidate and where appropriate, supporting budgetary requirements.

Costs for student visa and immigration health surcharge are not covered by this bursary. For further guidance and advice visit our international and EU students ‘Visa FAQs’ page.    

The work on this project could involve:

●       Working between start-up nutrition companies and the University of Portsmouth.

●       The use of world leading laboratories, equipment and techniques.   

●        Collaboration with world-leading researchers. 

Project description

Anthropogenic warming is increasing the likelihood of extreme heat events. There is a growing realization that extreme heat can adversely affect individuals with metabolic diseases. Exposure to high temperatures strains cardiovascular physiology, and people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, alternative or additive strategies to improve the cardiovascular health of people with T2D are needed.

Numerous nutraceuticals claim to benefit cardiovascular health, but there is limited evidence supporting their effectiveness. Recently, we have shown that acute ingestion of ketone monoesters can improve cardiac output, stroke volume and peripheral muscle oxygenation in people with type 2 diabetes. However, the chronic effects of this supplement, as well as other potential supplements, remain unknown. It is also unclear if these supplements can alleviate the symptoms of heat stress. Our aim is to understand the physiological mechanisms by which ketones and other novel supplements can improve cardiovascular physiology and help prepare people for heat waves. 

The research will be conducted in the world-leading extreme environments and the CHaRT laboratories at the University of Portsmouth. The student will work closely with their supervisors and the wider team, fully immersing themselves in running clinical trials and analyses.

General admissions criteria

You’ll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

Specific candidate requirements

The ideal candidate should have a taught Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, involving a dissertation of standard length written in English in the relevant subject area with a minimum of a merit profile: 60% overall module average and a minimum of a 60% dissertation mark.

In addition to the above, you should have at least one of the following: 

• Experience conducting research using extreme stressors;
• Experience assessing vascular / cardiac physiology function;
• Experience working with people with type 2 diabetes;
• Experience working with nutritional supplements (especially ketones)

How to Apply

We’d encourage you to contact Dr Ant Shepherd (ant.shepherd@port.ac.uk) to discuss your interest before you apply, quoting the project code.

When you are ready to apply, you can use our online application form. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV.  Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.

If you want to be considered for this funded PhD opportunity you must quote project code PSH50400325  when applying. Please note that email applications are not accepted.