PhD Studentship: Targeting Multi-Organ Gut Axes to Improve Cognitive and Functional Health in Middle-Aged Adults Through Supplementation and Dietary Strategies

This PhD programme of work, supported by HTC Health LTD in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University, aims to explore the multi-organ communication pathways of the gut, specifically the gut-brain and gut-muscle axes, as potentially key modulators of cognitive function, and physical health in middle-aged-to-older adults.

The central theme will be to investigate how targeted supplementation of nutraceuticals, and dietary strategies can enhance gut health, and in turn influence downstream outcomes such as cognition, mood, weight regulation, and musculoskeletal function.

This research is particularly aligned with HTC Health’s long-standing commitment to evidence-based nutritional solutions for human health and is informed by industry insights into weight management and consumer-driven demand for cognitive and mood-related benefits and the interaction with the gut.

The successful candidate will work closely with the supervisory team and key stakeholders at HTC Health to develop the specific programme of work throughout the PhD.

Project aims and objectives

The primary aims of this PhD project are as follows:

• To investigate how dietary supplementation modulates the gut microbiota and gut permeability, and how these changes correlate with improvements in muscle function, metabolic health, and early signs of cognitive decline.
• To explore the axes of the gut-brain and gut-muscle to overall health in middle-aged populations.
• To examine the bidirectional relationship between gut health and weight management.

Funding

Both home and international students can apply. Only home tuition fees will be covered which is £5,006 for the year 2025/26. International students will need to make up the difference in fees (band 2, £22,500 for the year 2025/26). The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award, which is three years. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £20,780 for the academic year 2025/26.

Specific requirements of the candidate

• Candidates should have an undergraduate degree (first or upper second class) or equivalent qualification in sport and exercise science or a related field.
• A Masters qualification in a relevant area would be desirable.
• Experience in quantitative research in areas relating to musculoskeletal health would be desirable.
• Applicants who have not been awarded a degree by a University in the UK will be expected to demonstrate English language skills to IELTS 7.0 (minimum 6.5 in any section).

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Paul Morgan (p.morgan@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Sports & Exercise Science (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete a standard CV and cover letter, demonstrating your academic achievements, relevant experience, and motivation for pursuing this PhD. 

You will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 28 August 2025

Expected start date January 2026

Please quote the reference: SciEng-PM-2025-26-HTC-Gut-Brain

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. Please ensure that you take into account our Inclusive and Diverse Culture Strategy when preparing an application.

Advert information