PhD Studentship - Investigating Muscle and Brain Metabolism to Alleviate Post-Exercise Malaise in Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes

Project advert

Are you passionate about health, exercise or biomedical sciences? If so, you can join our dynamic research team based in central Manchester (UK) and contribute to new studies designed to understand the biological causes of chronic fatigue and what happens when affected individuals exercise. 

What you’ll do:

• We’ll help you master cutting-edge laboratory techniques like cardiorespiratory exercise testing and 3 Tesla MRI scanning to investigate muscle and brain biomarkers of fatigue and pain.
• You’ll collaborate with clinical experts and patient groups to develop detailed knowledge and interventions aimed at improving patient outcomes.
• Develop detailed knowledge of the research literature and research findings dissemination.

Why join us?

• You’ll be based in Manchester as part of our team with a history of delivering internationally leading research.
• Advance your career with this three-year full-time doctoral training project. You will develop knowledge, skills and experience in research and clinical settings, and you’ll have the chance to influence guidelines to drive significant improvements in care for those experiencing chronic fatigue.

If you’re up for the challenge and want to join our team, apply now! 

Project aims and objectives

The aims of this research are to investigate the physiological characteristics of chronic fatigue and its interaction with exercise, and to develop effective interventions for patients experiencing chronic fatigue.

Funding

The student will be in receipt of a stipend payment; the Research Council minimum rate (set by UKRI) £20,780 for 2025/26.

Home and Overseas students can apply. Home fees are covered. Eligible overseas students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding. 

Specific requirements of the candidate

We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated candidate with a strong background in allied health, exercise, biomedical sciences or a similar discipline. The ideal candidate will have:

• A bachelor/master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Experience with physiological assessments from activities in a research or clinical environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Core skills include:

• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation.
• Familiarity with research methodologies and clinical guidelines.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet project deadlines.

How to apply

Interested applicants can contact Dr. Fabio Zambolin (F.Zambolin@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion. 

To apply, you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD

in Sports & Exercise Science

You should also complete a narrative CV (500-1000 words) addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have map to the area of research, how your experience makes you suitable for this position, and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.  

You will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 19^th May 2025

Expected start date October 2025.

Please quote the reference: SciEng-FZ-2025-FibroME Project

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. Please ensure that you take into account our Inclusive and Diverse Culture Strategy when preparing an application.

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