Improving global health: the impact of the micronutrient selenium on obesity-associated diseases
Despite the clear connections between nutrition and health, more than 1 billion people in the world are living with obesity and have increased risk of comorbidities. This project aims to define the role of the micronutrient selenium in modulating redox status and inflammation for the management of obesity associated diseases.
Research Opportunities
Summary
Global health is the main target for several United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); however, both the obesity epidemic and obesity associated diseases, which affect both developed and developing countries, represent major obstacles in the successful achievement of these goals. Adequate nutrition and, more specifically, micronutrient intake are key to support optimal health and reduce susceptibility to chronic diseases often associated with obesity.
Improving health and the nutritional quality of diets and reducing the burden of obesity and associated diseases are, therefore, central to meeting UK directives and UN sustainable development goals, and to achieving societal change. This can only be attained if the cellular and molecular mechanisms affected by micronutrient deficiency in the context of obesity and associated diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD), are fully elucidated.
This project will assess, by using in vitro and ex vivo models of disease, the mechanisms underpinning interactions between micronutrients and cellular processes (e.g. redox homeostasis, fat metabolism, mitochondrial metabolism/biogenesis, and inflammatory pathways), in order to understand their impact on the metabolism of overweight and obese individuals and disease risk. The proposed research will better characterise the importance of the micronutrient selenium and obesity, as risk factors for NAFLD, and, ultimately, it will provide evidence-based knowledge to inform public health strategies aimed at embracing positive nutrition and reducing risk of chronic disease in malnourished individuals.
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We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
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Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
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English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
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Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £19,450 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,670 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,720 per academic year
For Academic Year 2023/2024
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,712 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,830 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,356 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £18,700 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,220 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,350 per academic year
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The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:
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Funded Studentships
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How to Apply
Applications
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Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
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