Understanding the loss of drive to eat in older adults

Up to 30% of older adults (>65yrs) experience a loss of appetite that increases the risk of malnutrition, sarcopenia and mortality. However, previous research has focused on the mechanisms that promote increased fullness and satiety, rather than mechanisms that underlie age-related losses in the drive to eat. <br /> <br /> This PhD project will embody a systematic series of studies in community-dwelling older adults to examine: <br /> <br /> i) the role of fat-free mass and resting metabolic rate as determinants of hunger and food intake, <br /> ii) how palatability and reward-driven eating behaviour influence hunger and food intake, <br /> iii) the relationship between executive function and the drive to eat.

<p>The earliest start date for this project is 1 October 2020.</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="http://www.leeds.ac.uk/rsa/prospective_students/apply/I_want_to_apply.html">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is Understanding the loss of drive to eat in older adults  as well as <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/food-nutrition/staff/7167/dr-mark-hopkins">Dr Mark Hopkins</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><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></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 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 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>This project is not funded and potential students are expected either to self-fund or apply for competative funding.</p>

<p>For further information regarding your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email:  <a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a>, or by telephone:  + 44 (0) 113 343 5057</p> <p>For further information regarding the project, please contact Dr Mark Hopkins by email:  <a href="mailto:M.Hopkins@leeds.ac.uk">M.Hopkins@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p> </p>