PhD Studentship: Shielding the Vessels from Stress’ Impact of Diet in Protecting Cerebral and Vascular Physiology in Humans during Psychological Stress

Background: The impact of diet on mental health and brain performance is a topic of growing focus and concern: diets rich in saturated fats have been associated with a significant risk for cognitive decline later in life, whilst healthier diets, rich in plant polyphenols are linked to reduced risk of dementia. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of stress in our societies is also contributing to poorer brain function: e.g. chronic stress alters functional connectivity and impairs attention and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Importantly, unhealthy/healthy food choices stressful events might either exacerbate or protect vascular and cerebral function from the effects of mental stress.

We have shown that foods rich in flavonoids can prevent negative effects of stress on vascular function both when administered in isolation and in the context of a high-fat meal. Intake of flavonoids before physiological stress also results in higher and faster levels of cerebral oxygenation in the pre-frontal cortex and better cognitive performance in young healthy individuals. As such, flavonoid-rich goods might be used as a strategy to minimize the impact of stress on brain and mental health, as well as cardiovascular health.

Objectives: In this project, our key objectives are to investigate whether single and habitual intake of polyphenols with the diet improve brain oxygenation and arterial function in the context of stress, leading to better cognitive performance and improved mood in middle-aged healthy adults. These data will establish whether dietary polyphenols are effective to minimize the impact of stress on mood and cognitive function, by modulating the underlying physiological responses to stress. We will also identify individuals who may benefit the most from incorporation of polyphenols into their diet during stressful periods.

Significance: Stress is widespread in society and a risk factor for heart disease, obesity and poor mental health. This work will have implications for understanding the health impact of intake of polyphenols to build physiological resilience against and/or rescue from the negative effects of stress. Ultimately, this may impact overall diet and long-term health, and it may shape future nutritional guidelines on diet around stress.

Opportunities/ Training for the student:

This is a multidisciplinary project that will provide training across a number of different areas including nutrition, physiology, psychology and exercise physiology.

The successful candidate will be part of a vibrant PhD community in the school of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences. They will be trained by senior researchers within our research group. The student will have the opportunity to attended scientific conference and be part of public engagement activities around Nutrition and Health.

Funding notes:

Person Specification:

REQUIRED: First Class Degree or 2:1 in a relevant subject area.

PREFERABLE:

1) An MSc in a relevant subject area

2) Preference will be given to candidates with experience in a research setting, particularly running human studies

Successful applicants will be fully funded for 3 years, for a start between January 2026- September 2026 at the University of Birmingham.

3)Students should have Home student (UK) status (including settled status).

International students that are interested in the project, fulfil the person specification and can cover the additional fees for international students (approx.. 18K /year), please contact Dr. Catarina Rendeiro by email on c.rendeiro@bham.ac.uk, for an informal discussion.

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