PhD Nutrition Innovation Centre for food and HEalth (NICHE)

Based in Northern Ireland at the Coleraine Campus of Ulster University, NICHE performs research to investigate the role of food and nutrition in the promotion of better health and well-being throughout the lifecycle, from pregnancy through to older age. We are the largest nutrition research group in Ireland and one of the largest in the UK and Europe, with 100 members including academic, research, technical and business support staff, together with PhD researchers, masters research students and undergraduate student interns. Our mission in NICHE is the achievement of global excellence in nutrition research and education. Our nutrition research activities are aimed across the lifespan and with a particular focus on early life on one hand, and ageing on the other. Investigating nutrition in health and disease, and the underlying mechanisms involved, our overall aim is to promote better health and to help prevent nutrition-related disease, including, obesity and related metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, autoimmunity, diseases of the gut, cognitive dysfunction and mental health conditions.

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction. In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.