PhD Studentship: Improving Risk Stratification and Diagnosis of Heart Failure Using Cardiac Output Response to Stress Test

About the Project

The research team led by Professor Jakovljevic developed an easy-to-use, non-invasive, patient friendly Cardiac Output Response to Stress (CORS) test to enhance risk stratification and early diagnosis of heart failure (HF) in primary care. The CORS test measures haemodynamic function (cardiac output, stroke volume, heart rate, and blood pressure) at rest- (supine), challenge- (standing), and stress-(step-exercise) phases. The research team provided evidence that there is a clinical need for novel diagnostic tests for HF in primary care. The CORS test’s feasibility, reproducibility and preliminary accuracy have also been demonstrated. Using retrospective and prospective multicentre clinical studies, the first phase of the project will aim to provide further evidence on the accuracy of the CORS test to identify HF, and differentiate between different types of heart failure i.e. HF reduced ejection fraction, HF mid-range ejection fraction, HF preserved ejection fraction. During the second stage of the project, the CORS test SCORE will be developed which will integrate CORS test results along with other HF-related variables. The project is part of an international Horizon Europe funded STRATIFYHF project which aims to develop and validate a clinical decision tool for risk stratification and early diagnosis of heart failure in primary and secondary care. 

Training and Development

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills.

All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.  

Entry criteria for applicants to PhD

• A bachelor’s (honours) degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum classification of 2:1 and a minimum mark of 60% in the project element (or equivalent), or an equivalent award from an overseas institution.

PLUS

• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years
• An adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by applicants whose first language is not English. The general requirement is a minimum overall IELTS Academic score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the four sections, or the TOEFL iBT test with a minimum overall score of 95 with a minimum of 21 in each of the four sections.

To find out more about the project please contact: Professor Djordje Jakovljevic (djordje.jakovljevic@coventry.ac.uk)

Funding Details

Tuition Fees and Bursary

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