Extracellular Vesicles and Skeletal Muscle Function and Growth in Ageing and Obesity: Role of Adipose-Tissue and Satellite Cells

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Nottingham investigates the role of extracellular vesicles released by adipose tissue in regulating skeletal muscle function and growth during ageing and obesity. Sarcopenia, the age-related decline in muscle mass and function, is a growing healthcare concern, especially as it is often accompanied by increased adiposity and a higher risk of metabolic disorders. Recent research suggests that adipose tissue-derived extracellular vesicles carry molecular cargo that impairs muscle growth and function, but the mechanisms and their impact on muscle recovery from injury remain poorly understood. The project aims to address these knowledge gaps by studying vesicles from lean and obese individuals, focusing on their effects on muscle growth, metabolic function, and regenerative capacity during ageing. The ultimate goal is to identify novel pathways and therapeutic targets to combat sarcopenia and related metabolic dysfunctions. As a student, you will receive interdisciplinary training in advanced laboratory techniques, including human primary cell culture, extracellular vesicle isolation and imaging, molecular biology methods (such as Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and next-generation sequencing), metabolic assays, human physiology, and bioinformatics analysis. The program also offers cross-sectorial training through collaboration with clinicians at NHS Trust Hospitals and access to resources at both the University of Nottingham and the University of Birmingham. The studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council for four years and covers a stipend, tuition fees (for both home and international students), a laptop allowance, a research training and support grant (£5,000 per annum), and a travel allowance (£300 per annum). Applications are open to home, EU, and international candidates, though international recruitment is capped at 30% of the cohort due to funder stipulations. Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, physiology, molecular biology, or a related field. Experience in laboratory techniques, cell culture, molecular biology, or bioinformatics is desirable. The application deadline is January 9, 2026, at 12:00 pm GMT. For further details and to apply, visit the MRC AIM website or contact the lead supervisor, Professor Kostas Tsintzas. References supporting the project include recent studies on adipokines, muscle inflammation, extracellular vesicle biology, and muscle regeneration, highlighting the cutting-edge nature of the research. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in translational research at the intersection of cell biology, ageing, obesity, and metabolic health.