Ethnic-specific markers and mediators of metabolism and disease risk

Globally, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular are the leading cause of death. These diseases are linked to a person's age, ethnicity, culture, genetics, and lifestyle habits, such as diet and exercise. <br /> Evidence suggests that a large majority of cases could be prevented if a healthier lifestyle were followed but finding a single prevention or treatment strategy that works equally well for everyone no longer seems possible. <br /> Excitingly, important links between our genes and how people metabolise food differently has allowed us to uncover unique metabolic profiles in populations at high risk and encourages us to re-examine the shared role of ethnic-specific genetic characteristics and diet on the development of diseases. In this research group, we examine (i) how ethnic-specific genetic and metabolic traits modify risk of diseases; and (ii) how modifying diet or exercise strategies can reduce this risk .

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is ‘The role of genetics in the regulation of metabolism and cardiometabolic diseases and cancer’ as well as <a href="https://physicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/staff/166/dr-michael-zulyniak">Dr Michael Zulyniak</a> as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p> </p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p><strong>Self-Funding Students are welcome to apply.</strong></p> <p><strong>UK students</strong> – The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/138-leeds-doctoral-scholarships-2021-january-deadline">Leeds Doctoral Scholarship (January deadline)</a> is available to UK applicants.  <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p><strong>Non-UK students</strong> –The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/48-china-scholarship-council-university-of-leeds-scholarships-2021">China Scholarship Council - University of Leeds Scholarship</a> is available to nationals of China. The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/73-leeds-marshall-scholarship">Leeds Marshall Scholarship</a> is available to support US citizens.  <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p>

<p>For further information regarding your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email: ENV-PGR@leeds.ac.uk</p> <p>For further information regarding the project, please contact Dr Michael Zulyniak by email:  <a href="mailto:M.A.Zulyniak@leeds.ac.uk">M.A.Zulyniak@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>