PhD Thesis: The Influence of Adapted Physical Activity and Nutrition on Life Trajectories and Prevention of Frailty in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients (KIDIHealth Nexus) University of Montpellier in France

This PhD position at the University of Montpellier is part of the KIDIHealth Nexus research program, focusing on the influence of adapted physical activity and nutrition on life trajectories and the prevention of frailty in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD affects a significant portion of the population and is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, making it a major public health concern. The project is situated within the Charles Mion Aider Santé Foundation’s monitoring program, which combines physical frailty assessment and nutritional support for patients.

The doctoral research will employ a longitudinal qualitative approach, studying a cohort of 40 patients (20 with CKD stages 1–5 and 20 dialysis patients) from both ultra-rural and metropolitan urban areas in the Occitanie region. The aim is to analyze how physical activity and nutrition contribute to maintaining lifestyles or fostering new forms of social engagement among CKD patients. The student will have privileged access to supplementary clinical data from a cohort of over 5,000 patients, including laboratory tests, dietary surveys, muscle strength measurements, and frailty scores.

Research activities include repeated qualitative interviews (three rounds over one year), participant logbooks documenting dietary and physical changes, chronothematic analysis to identify emerging themes, and assistance with integrated physiology tests. The project is highly transdisciplinary, contextualizing results alongside related theses in physiology and nutrition. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €2,300 for three years, with a contract running from October 2026 to September 2029.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Sports Science, Sociology, or Public Health (grade 'B' or higher), proficiency in qualitative research methods, and strong written and oral communication skills in French. Interest or experience in physiological analysis and data processing is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate rigor, ethics, teamwork, independence, and intellectual curiosity. Applications must include a CV, cover letter, degree or transcripts, and any additional documents required by Doctoral School 60.

To apply, send your application to the supervisors and coordinator via email, ensuring all required documents are included. The deadline for applications is 20 May 2026. For further information, consult the provided links to the doctoral school and program details.