PhD Studentship: Cognitive dysfunction in lupus: associations with (dys)regulation of cerebral blood flow and effects of exercise (LUPUS BRAIN BOOST)

This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237. 

Project advert

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune condition marked by a range of severe and often life-altering symptoms. Among them, cognitive dysfunction—affecting 38% of patients—stands out as especially challenging.

This PhD project aims to investigate whether changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) regulation are associated with cognitive dysfunction in SLE. Additionally, it will examine the immediate effects of exercise on CBF regulation and cognitive function in SLE patients.

The PhD student will use Manchester Met’s state-of-the-art exercise laboratories, Transcranial Doppler, and a 3T MRI scanner to investigate CBF regulation and the effects of exercise in SLE. The student will be trained to analyze and interpret CBF data from MRI and Transcranial Doppler. This project will help the student develop transferable technical skills and build long-lasting relationships with key stakeholders (e.g., Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, Lupus-UK, Manchester-BRC, Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre), contributing to their development as an independent researcher and propelling them toward a successful career in academia or industry.

Project aims and objectives

Cognitive dysfunction is a significant and challenging symptom in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. Despite its importance, this aspect of SLE remains poorly understood and under-investigated, which can hamper accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

This PhD project aims to identify potential associations between impairment in cerebral blood flow (CBF) regulation and cognitive dysfunction in individuals with SLE. Additionally, this project will explore whether aerobic exercise can improve CBF regulation and cognitive performance in individuals with SLE and cognitive impairment.

The data generated by this project can be a foundation for comprehending and addressing cognitive dysfunction in SLE. This effort holds the potential to benefit the management of approximately 60,000 people in the UK and 10 million worldwide.

Objectives:

• 1) To identify the associations between CBF regulation and the presence of cognitive dysfunction in lupus
• 2) To investigate the acute effects of exercise on CBF regulation and cognitive performance in lupus

Specific requirements of the candidate

Applicants should have:

• Knowledge and some experience of standard research techniques and methods to assess cerebral blood flow and/or cognitive function.
• Some experience in working with patient groups.
• Some experience in developing and conducting exercise interventions.
• The ability to collate, interpret, analyse and present data.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Tiago Pecanha for an informal discussion. APCs will be £5k p.a.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Sport and Exercise Science (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete the PGR thesis proposal and a Narrative CV (supplementary information) form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.

Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students. 

Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-Lupus

Advert information