Sport and Exercise Science: Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: The effect of dietary supplementation on cardio-metabolic response and human performance during thermal challenge
This scholarship is funded by Swansea University's College of Engineering.
Start date: January 2020
Subject areas: Exercise physiology, thermal physiology
Project background and description:
Prolonged exposure to the thermal stress (e.g. heat, cold) of the environment can incur a strain that degrades human health and performance (for all populations and demographics). This applies to physically active individuals, from both athletic and occupational settings. The negative consequences of thermal stress often result in impaired autonomic control and dysregulation of cardio-metabolic processes. This results in progressive changes in body temperature, an inability to optimally perform physically or cognitively demanding tasks, and limited exercise tolerance.
Prolonged exposure to the thermal stress (e.g. heat, cold) of the environment can incur a strain that degrades human health and performance (for all populations and demographics). This applies to physically active individuals, from both athletic and occupational settings. The negative consequences of thermal stress often result in impaired autonomic control and dysregulation of cardio-metabolic processes. This results in progressive changes in body temperature, an inability to optimally perform physically or cognitively demanding tasks, and limited exercise tolerance.
This exciting project will explore novel use of dietary supplements with the intent to enhance performance and to safely manage the cardio-metabolic responses to physical work during heat and cold stress (i.e. the thermal challenge). In particular, this research will identify the mechanisms by which the chosen supplement(s) may offset the deleterious effects of hot or cold exposure on physical and mental performance. Candidates are invited to propose their research plan (in compliance with the requirements for a PhD) and technical rationale to explain how it is designed to meet this project’s objectives. This should be a one page document, which includes a brief general background, individual project aims and general proposed methods.
Project supervisors:
- Dr Mark Waldron https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mark_Waldron
- Dr Shane Heffernan https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shane_Heffernan
- Dr Melitta McNarry https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/engineering/m.mcnarry/
- Professor Liam Kilduff https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/engineering/l.kilduff/
Project advisor (Industry liaison):
Mr V. René Nevola, UK Defence science and technology laboratory (Dstl)
Available resources/facilities:
Suitable laboratory facilities, equipment and consumables are available for completing this project.
This is a scholarship by
Swansea University
Swansea, is a coastal city and county, officially known as the City and County of Swansea in Wales.
Eligibility
Candidates should hold an MSc (or its equivalent) in Sports Science or similar relevant science discipline (Human Physiology, Sports and Exercise Sciences, Biomedical Sciences).
Evidence of completing high-quality research projects at BSc and MSc level is required. Experience working in climatic chambers is desirable but not necessary.
We would normally expect the academic and English Language requirements (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent result) to be met by point of application. For details on the University’s English Language entry requirements, please visit our website.
Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to UK/EU candidates only.
Benefits
This scholarship covers the full cost of UK/EU tuition fees and an annual stipend of £15,009.
There will be additional funds available for research expenses.
