PhD Studentship: The STEPS Study: Simple Timed Eating and Physical Activity Strategies to Reduce Type 2 Diabetes

Project advert

This studentship offers an exciting opportunity to investigate how physical inactivity contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes and to explore whether simple lifestyle strategies can offset its negative effects on both metabolic and brain vascular health.

This PhD provides a unique opportunity to develop a wide range of research and professional skills. The student will gain hands-on experience in human physiology, nutrition, data analysis and clinical research, while also engaging with diverse stakeholders across academic, clinical and community settings. The project’s multidisciplinary nature will support the development of technical expertise, collaborative working, and professional networking.

The candidate will be supported to publish high-impact scientific papers, present at national and international conferences, and benefit from extensive training and development opportunities within a vibrant, inclusive doctoral community.

Project aims and objectives

This project aims to investigate how short-term physical inactivity affects glucose metabolism, liver fat accumulation, mitochondrial function and brain vascular health in adults at risk of type 2 diabetes. The study will:

• Assess the physiological consequences of seven days of reduced movement on metabolic and cerebrovascular systems.
• Identify whether simple, achievable lifestyle adjustments can help prevent or reverse these effects.
• Explore the potential for rapid recovery of metabolic and vascular function once habitual activity levels are resumed.

By integrating real-world behaviour monitoring with advanced laboratory techniques, this project will generate essential evidence to support practical and scalable strategies for preventing metabolic disease.

Funding

Both Home and International students can apply. Only home tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the 3.5-year award, which is £5,006 for the year 2025/26. Eligible international students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding (Band 3 for the year 2025/26).

The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. 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

• A first-class or upper-second-class degree (or equivalent) in physiology, nutrition, biomedical science, exercise science or a related subject.
• A keen interest in human metabolism, physical inactivity, and diabetes prevention.
• Experience in laboratory-based research or human data collection is desirable.
• Strong communication, organisation and teamwork skills.
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to work across laboratory, clinical and community settings.

A relevant Master’s degree, experience with data analysis or engagement in public-facing research would be advantageous. 

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Kelly Bowden Davies for an informal discussion. 

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full time PhD in Sports & Exercise Science. 

Please complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, and include [your CV] and [a covering letter] to demonstrate how your skills and experience map to the aims and objectives of the project, the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 10 March 2026 

Expected start date: October 2026

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