PhD Studentship: Muscle disuse atrophy: mechanistic underpinning and potential interventions - PhD (Funded)

The University of Exeter’s Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences invites applications for a PhD studentship, funded by the University of Exeter and Wageningen University, to start on 1 March 2026 or soon after.

Short periods of muscle disuse, such as during recovery from illness or injury, can cause rapid skeletal muscle loss (atrophy), reduced function, and lower quality of life. Muscle atrophy results from an imbalance between protein synthesis and breakdown, likely driven by impaired muscle protein synthesis in response to protein intake, known as anabolic resistance. This PhD will investigate the mechanisms of skeletal muscle disuse atrophy and test strategies to prevent the loss of muscle mass and function. Experimental models of disuse, including limb immobilisation and bed rest, will be combined with detailed in vivo human physiology techniques in healthy volunteers. Methods may include stable isotope tracers, blood and muscle biopsies, imaging (ultrasound, MRI, DXA), and molecular analyses of collected samples. The studentship is suitable for an enthusiastic candidate interested in understanding the mechanisms of skeletal muscle loss and evaluating interventions. Strong communication, organisational skills, and a flexible, mature approach are essential due to supervision across two institutions.

For eligible students, the award covers Home tuition fees and a tax-free stipend of at least £20.780 per year for 4 years full-time (pro rata for part-time study). Students will spend at least 40% of their time at each university and graduate with a joint Exeter–Wageningen PhD. Initially, the student will be based for ~18 months in the Human and Animal Physiology group at Wageningen University, before moving to the Nutritional Physiology Research Group at Exeter’s St Luke’s Campus for part or all of the remaining period. The student will benefit from the combined expertise and facilities of both institutions, with consistent supervision at each site.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit. Students who pay international tuition fees are eligible to apply. However, they should be aware that the award will only covers part (approximately £25,000) of the international tuition fee (currently £28,600pa) and does not include a stipend for living expenses.  Applicants are responsible for visa, healthcare surcharge, and relocation costs. Eligibility for Home fee status is complex. Applicants who have moved to or from the UK (or Republic of Ireland) within the past three years, or who have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, should seek advice early.

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