Ageing is associated with adecline in central and physical performance, with increased arterial stiffness,chronic hypertension, loss of heart rate variability and declining walking speeds and physical function. Omega 3 supplementation in conjunction withexercise may be an effective way to ensure that we can enhance the health ofthe older population and prevent long term decline of ageing. Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (FA) from fish oils (FO) improves several markers of cardiovascular (CV) risk, including blood pressure (BP) and triglyceridelevels. Interestingly, the two main FA found in FO, Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)and docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), exert different effects when administered individually, e.g. DHA is more potent in inducing changes in BP, HR and lipoprotein profiles, while their separate effect on inflammation is stilluncertain. Surprisingly, very little is known on the individual effect of EPAand DHA on haemodynamic and metabolic changes during and post exercise.
The project
We have an ageing population which brings increased risk of ill health, however pharmaceutical approaches are costly and reactive and can lead to a decline in physicalcapacity and social isolation. This project will look at the effects on cardiovascular function of prolonged supplementation with omega 3 in older adults. It is thought that different ratio of EPA and DHA may elicit different physiological responses. For example, DHA appears to have a greater impact on resting heart rate than EPA. We will look at the effect of different supplements using randomised control trials in participants aged 60-80 years. Once an effective omega 3 supplement has been demonstrated will then look at whether there is a synergistic effect when taking omega 3 whilst exercising. We have demonstrated that sprint interval training is an effective and time efficient training modality to improve cardiovascular function in older adults (Adamson S et al Sports Science for Health 2019). However, ageing is associated with sub-acute inflammation and omega 3 supplementation may reduce thi sallowing a greater training response. In this project there will be a variety of techniques utilised such as cardiovascular analysis, functional testing and blood analysis for fatty acid profiles and omega 3 signalling molecules.
The successful applicant will have at least an undergraduate degree (2:1 or higher) and a background in health science, nutrition or sports science with an interest in the ageing process. Working knowledge of biological analysis or human testing would also be an asset, but it is not a requirement for the position. You will be responsible for the organisation of the studies and interaction with older adults so candidates should have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Abertay University, in Dundee, Scotland, is a modern university with a global outlook, rooted in its local and national communities. In 2013 we marked the 125th anniversary of our foundation as an institution dedicated to supporting science, industry and the professions with a distinctive interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinaryapproach to teaching, research and knowledge exchange.
The PhD student shipprovides a package valued at around GBP 70,000. This includes a fully funded tax free stipend of approximately GBP 15000 per year, over 3 years and full tuition fees.
Abertay Graduate School
Located in the Abertay Graduate School you will have access to our dedicated study and social spaces -a forum in which you can meet, work and learn with other researchers and postgraduates from across the University. We provide training and professional development opportunities to our postgraduate community, and offer help with funding applications, placement opportunities, teaching support,public engagement and outreach activity.
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr. Sarah Cottin (s.cottin@abertay.ac.uk) or Dr. John Babraj (j.babraj@abertay.ac.uk)
Entry requirements
A related Masters level qualification is desirable but not essential, but candidates must have, or expect to obtain a first class or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant discipline as detailed above. Applicants who are non-native speakers of English, the University requires IELTS of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.5) or an equivalent qualification accepted by the Home Office.
If you are selected for interview you will be required to complete an online Research Student Application Form which includes the submission of a research proposal. Guidance on how to write the proposal can befound here: https://www.abertay.ac.uk/study-apply/how-to-apply/how-to-apply/. Applicants are also encouraged to contact Dr. Sarah Cottin (s.cottin@abertay.ac.uk) or Dr. John Babraj (j.babraj@abertay.ac.uk) for advice ondeveloping a proposal prior to submitting it.
The Studentship is available for a February or June 2020 start, for aperiod of up to 3 years.