The effects of supplementation and exercise on the synergistic interplay between vitamins D and K

Vitamins D and K are both essential nutrients that play a crucial role in human health. Low levels of the fat-soluble vitamins have, independently, been associated with impaired physical health in numerous populations, i.e. older adults. Not only has older age been associated with deficiency in terms of the status, but also in the downstream metabolites such as the vitamin D receptor (VDR). The VDR plays a pivotal role in the up or downregulation of protein transcription. Vitamin K then has a role in post-translational transcription of these proteins. The literature suggests there is a synergistic interplay between vitamins D and K, therefore it could be hypothesised that a combination could provide additive health benefits specifically in older adults who are at risk of deficiency.

Possible interventions to increase VDR expression and activity are supplementation with vitamin D and K and exercise. Therefore, this PhD project will aim to establish the extent of the benefit of novel supplementation and exercise interventions on VDR expression.

Eligibility

This scholarship is open to all students, whether home, EU or overseas.

Essential requirements:

–         First or upper second-class Honours degree (or equivalent) in Sport & Exercise Sciences, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline.

–         Excellent personal, oral, and written communication skills.

Desirable qualities:

–         MSc in a relevant discipline

–         Demonstrable understanding/interest of nutritional supplements and metabolism, and exercise physiology.

–         Experience in conducting research in a relevant area.

Candidates should demonstrate good English language skills, attention to detail, a disciplined and methodical approach to completing their workload, computer literacy, excellent communication skills and the ability to write reports and present information in a clear and engaging manner to academic and industry audiences.

Funding

This is a full scholarship which will cover tuition fees (Home and Oversees) and provide an annual stipend (currently £18,622, increasing to £19,237 in 2024-25) for 42 months. Thereafter, candidates will be expected to pay a continuing affiliation fee (currently £130) whilst they complete writing up their thesis.

How to Apply

To apply you must complete our online application form..

Please select PhD Life Science as the programme and include your full project title and reference number (EGIS2024-HL) on your application form. Ensure that all fields marked as ‘required’ are complete.

Once have entered your personal details, click submit. You will be asked to upload your supporting documents. You must complete the section marked project proposal; please provide a written proposal (3-5 A4 pages), including a supporting statement outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project.

You must also upload your CV, a copy of your degree certificate and relevant transcripts and an academic reference in the relevant section of the application form.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0, or a TOEFL certificate with an overall score of at least 85, including reading 20, listening 19, speaking 20 and writing 21. Alternatively, if you have received an English-taught Bachelors or Masters degree from one of the countries listed on the UK Government Guidance under ‘Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English’, and it was obtained less than two years from your intended start date, you should provide evidence of your award that clearly states it was delivered and assessed in English language.

Please contact egis-pgr-apps@hw.ac.uk for technical support with your application.

Timeline

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The closing date is 28th June 2024, The successful candidate will be expected to start by October 2024.