PhD Studentship: ‘A Blue Stress Snack’ Can Polyphenol-rich Blueberries Build Cerebral and Vascular Resilience Against Mental Stress

Background:  

The impact of diet on mental health and brain performance is a topic of growing focus and concern: diets rich in saturated fats have been associated with a significant risk for cognitive decline later in life, whilst healthier diets, rich in plant polyphenols are linked to reduced risk of dementia. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of stress in our societies is also contributing to poorer brain function: e.g. chronic stress alters functional connectivity and impairs attention and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Importantly, unhealthy/healthy food choices stressful events might either exacerbate or protect vascular and cerebral function from the effects of mental stress.

We have recently shown that a high-fat-meal just before an acute episode of mental stress reduces pre-frontal cortical oxygenation in comparison to a low-fat control in healthy young adults (1) and impairs the recovery of vascular function (2). On the other hand, we have shown that foods rich in flavonoids can prevent negative effects of stress on vascular function both when administered in isolation (3) and in the context of a high-fat meal (4). As such, flavonoid-rich goods might be used as a strategy to minimize the impact of stress on brain and mental health, as well as cardiovascular health. 

Objectives:  

In this project, our key objectives are to investigate whether single and habitual intake of polyphenol-rich blueberries improve brain oxygenation and arterial function in the context of psychological stress, leading to better cognitive performance and improved mood in middle-aged healthy adults. These data will establish whether blueberries can be effective as a ‘stress snack’ to minimize the impact of stress on mood and cognitive function, by modulating the underlying physiological responses to stress. 

Funding notes:  

Person Specification

Applicants should have a strong background in one of the relevant subjects: Human Physiology, Nutrition, Cardiovascular Sciences, Exercise/Sports Physiology and/or Psychology. They should have a commitment and strong interest in interdisciplinary research, be motivated and be prepared to work independently.

REQUIRED:

First Class Degree in a relevant subject area

PREFERABLE:

1. An MSc (Distinction) in a relevant subject area
2. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in a research setting, particularly running human studies
3. Preference will be given to applicants that have publications and/or relevant prizes / scholarships awarded (E.g. poster awards, travel grants, summer placements)

Successful applicants will be fully funded for 3 years, for a start between October 2025 and January 2026 at the University of Birmingham. Students should have Home student (UK) status (including settled status).

International students that are interested in the project, fulfil the person specification and can cover the additional fees for international students, please contact Dr. Rendeiro by email on c.rendeiro@bham.ac.uk.

You can apply via the above ‘Apply’ button.

And select programme 0355 PhD Sport & Exercise FT and ‘Dr Catarina Rendeiro’ as main supervisor.

Please submit:

• A detailed CV
• Names and addresses of two referees
• A cover letter stating why this project is of interest to you and highlighting how your research experience/capabilities would be applicable in this project.

References:

1- Baynham R et al., 2023. Nutrients. Sep; 15(18): 3969

2- Baynham R et al., 2023. Front. Nutr. 10.

3- Baynham R., et al. 2020. Nutrients. 13(4):1103

4 - Baynham R, et al.. 2024. Food Funct.15, 11472-11490

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