Developing our Understanding of Active and Healthy Ageing Using Biological Assessments

This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237. 

Project advert

Ageing is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that involves a gradual decline of physiological systems and cellular processes. It is usually quantified as a measurement of the time elapsed since birth (i.e., Chronological Age). However, this simple count cannot explain the large variations in the ageing trajectories that exist between older people of similar age. For these reasons, researchers have tried to identify alternative descriptions of ageing based on assessments that reflect the “biological age” of an individual. This was linked to the interactions of genes, environment, and lifestyle choices. The research planned within this PhD project aims to address this question of how biological age can be measured and used as a biomarker to improve the ageing process. We will develop metrics to accurately predict biological age with the longer-term goal of making the validated assessments available across very large populations of people for promoting healthy ageing. This will have an important impact on our society by raising the quality of life of older people living in our communities.  

Project aims and objectives

1. Comprehensive biomarker identification: The first phase involves conducting a systematic review of existing literature, examining various biomarkers that have been used to assess biological age.
2. Physiological and functional assessments of human adults: This phase of the project will establish a unique dataset by recruiting human volunteers to complete assessments in our research facilities. We will utilise advanced technology to determine mechanisms of ageing and their candidacy as biomarkers of biological age.
3. Validation of short-form assessments: Advancing from the gold-standard comprehensive studies (phase 2, above), the third phase of the project will validate a short-form of the assessments.

Specific requirements of the candidate

This represents an opportunity to join the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s growing doctoral research community, committed to excellent research with impact. Successful applicants will be active researchers in our world class Institute of Sport, and will be supported to develop their skills as independent researchers.

Ideal candidates will possess a robust background in human physiology, with a preference for those who exhibit well developed laboratory and analytical skills. A minimum of an honour’s degree at first or upper second-class level in subjects related to the biomedical sciences, health or exercise sciences is required. The research will involve a range of laboratory assessments, including magnetic resonance imaging, physical functional testing and blood analyte sampling so knowledge of the general principles of these assessments is essential and experience of conducting tests with human research participants will be viewed favourably. We seek proactive, independent, and enthusiastic individuals with a critical mindset to play a pivotal role in this cutting-edge research project. Successful applicants will be based in Manchester as part of our research team at the Manchester Metropolitan Institute of Sport.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Fabio Zambolin (f.zambolin@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD based in the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete both the (PGR thesis proposal and Narrative CV). The PGR proposal should briefly explain how you see the project developing to address the specific aims and objectives. It is also an opportunity for you to demonstrate how the skills you have map to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section or email the application form and statement to pgradmissions@mmu.ac.uk.

Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students. 

Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding. 

Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-Active-Healthy-Aging