Douglas Morrison

This PhD project at the University of Glasgow offers a unique opportunity to advance system-level tracing of human metabolism in health and disease using Orbitrap Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS). The research will focus on developing analytical workflows for human samples, primarily employing D2O labelling experiments to trace metabolism at whole-body, tissue, and cellular levels. Two main themes are central: tracing dietary response to understand nutrient production across the gut and microbiome, and using D2O labelling in surgical patients to investigate tissue and cellular metabolism in tumours and healthy tissue, aiming to uncover dysregulated pathways linked to tumour metastasis and recurrence. The student will join the Stable Isotope Biochemistry Laboratory at SUERC, collaborating with experts in Clinical Cancer Sciences and Human Metabolism. SUERC, in partnership with Thermo Fisher Scientific, has established the UK's first ultra-high resolution Orbitrap IRMS facility. Orbitrap IRMS offers significant advantages over traditional magnetic sector IRMS, including greater sensitivity and the ability to quantify multiple isotope systems simultaneously. This enables comprehensive tracing of labelled metabolites in human studies on a single platform. As part of the project, the student will work with Thermo Fisher Scientific specialists to develop data extraction, analysis, and reporting pipelines. The training will cover isotope tracer study design, Orbitrap isotope methodology, sample workflows, and advanced data analysis, positioning the student at the forefront of this technology with excellent prospects in academia and industry. Applicants should have strong backgrounds in chemistry, analytical chemistry, quantitative biochemistry, or related fields. Experience in mass spectrometry and data analysis is beneficial but not essential, as full training will be provided. The project is open to international applicants. The studentship provides full financial support, including tuition fees, a UKRI-aligned stipend for 42 months, and coverage of laboratory and research travel costs. The student will be based at SUERC in East Kilbride, joining a cohort of six PhD students in a collaborative mini-CDT focused on developing next-generation analytical technologies and advancing geochronology approaches. There are opportunities for extended placements at Thermo Fisher Scientific’s R&D hub in Bremen, Germany, offering hands-on experience in instrument design and prototyping. This close industry partnership will provide valuable insights into translating analytical concepts into research applications. To apply, visit the University of Glasgow College of Science and Engineering Graduate School application portal. Clearly state the project title, list the primary SUERC supervisor, and select SUERC as the host department. The anticipated start date is September 2026. For further information, contact Professor Douglas Morrison at [email protected].