Applications are invited for a PhD studentship, funded by the MRC, to commence in October 2012, in The Nutrition and Bone Health Research Group. The Group undertakes research into nutrition and lifestyle factors for the optimisation of bone health and the reduction of osteoporosis and rickets risk within the wider context of nutrition policy for calcium and vitamin D in developed and developing countries.
Limited studies in African children have demonstrated differences and similarities in skeletal growth and development compared to children living in developed countries. How these translate into peak bone strength and later fracture risk is not clear. This PhD project aims to compare bone development in populations from UK, South Africa and The Gambia. The PhD will focus on measurements of bone and muscle from imaging based methods to determine musculoskeletal phenotype.
This project will suit an individual with a background in a biological or medical science (e.g. physiology, medicine) or epidemiology with a strong interest in physiology or epidemiology. It will provide multidisciplinary training in cross cultural studies, bone biology, particularly bone growth and development, the role of lifestyle and nutrition in bone health and the use of imaging as a biomarker, particularly pQCT. Translational skills will include experience in cross cultural studies, epidemiology and imaging.
The successful candidate will be registered with the University of Cambridge and should have, or expect to obtain, a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject. The studentship is available to UK residents and EU nationals who have been resident in the UK for at least the previous three years. Further information about residence eligibility criteria can be found at www.mrc.ac.uk.
Further information about MRC Human Nutrition Research can be obtained from our website (www.mrc-hnr.cam.ac.uk). Informal enquiries are welcomed to Dr Kate Ward.
Applicants should provide a full CV and covering letter explaining their interest in the studentship, and details of two academic referees. Please email to Ms Pippa Eyre or post to Postgraduate Administrator, MRC Human Nutrition Research, Fulbourn Road, Cambridge CB1 9NL.
Closing date: 13th April 2012
Anticipated Interviews: End April/ beginning May 2012