Unravelling the Gut–Reproductive Axis: How Endometriosis-Associated Dysbiosis Shapes Pregnancy Health
Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory condition affecting approximately 190 million women worldwide, characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. Women with endometriosis face increased risks of pregnancy complications, including ectopic pregnancy, preterm birth, and placental disorders, yet the underlying biological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Recent research highlights the role of inflammation in disrupting intestinal barrier integrity and altering gut microbial composition, with systemic inflammation known to compromise pregnancy outcomes in other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. Women with endometriosis frequently experience gastrointestinal symptoms overlapping with irritable bowel syndrome, a connection now supported by genetic studies. However, the interplay between endometriosis, the gut, and pregnancy health has not been fully explored.
This PhD project aims to unravel how gut dysbiosis and altered intestinal permeability contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes in endometriosis. The research will focus on three main objectives: (1) defining gut metabolite signatures associated with poor pregnancy outcomes in endometriosis, (2) determining the functional impact of endometriosis-related metabolites on gut barrier integrity and decidualisation, and (3) evaluating how altered gut–immune–reproductive interactions affect pregnancy health using animal models. Methodologies will include targeted bioinformatic analyses, in-vitro models using human gut epithelial and endometrial stromal cells, in-vivo mouse models of endometriosis, and molecular analyses such as metabolomics, spectral flow cytometry, bulk RNA sequencing, and immunohistochemistry.
The project is based at the Centre for Reproductive Health (CRH) within the Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR) at the University of Edinburgh. Students will benefit from cross-disciplinary training, state-of-the-art research facilities, and integration into the broader CRH PhD programme, which offers exposure to diverse aspects of reproductive health and access to advanced training courses. The programme provides 3.5 years of funding, including a stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025-2026, tbc for 2026-2027) and tuition fees, with an additional 0.5 years of funding for career progression activities.
Eligibility requires a good honours degree in life sciences (at least UK level 2.1 or equivalent), with a Master’s degree in a relevant subject considered advantageous. Applicants must meet the University of Edinburgh's English language requirements. The studentship is open to UK and international students, including those from low-and-middle income countries, and is aimed at supporting non-clinical students. The University of Edinburgh adheres to principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
To apply, candidates should submit a personal statement (1 page), CV (max 2 pages), and two academic references using the CRH reference form in PDF format. Optional: up to 0.5 extra pages for exceptional circumstances. Applications should be sent to Aga Wysocka ([email protected]) by Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 4pm (UK Time). Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams on February 24, 2026, and will include a presentation and Q&A session.
This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in reproductive biology, immunology, and molecular biology, with the potential to inform new preventative and therapeutic strategies for women with endometriosis and their children.
