PhD Evaluating the nutritional, cardiometabolic and environmental impact of replacing animal-derived dairy products with plant-based alternatives
PhD @Loughborough University posted 1 month agoJob Description
Project details
Project overview
The global food system plays a pivotal role in both the prevention of noncommunicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, and the mitigation of climate change. Transitioning toward more sustainable diets, including the replacement of animal-derived foods such as dairy with plant-based alternatives (PBDAs), is a promising strategy. However, many commercially available plant-based cheeses (PBCs) are high in saturated fat due to their reliance on coconut oil, potentially limiting their health benefits. Despite their growing market presence, there is limited evidence on the cardiometabolic and environmental implications of these products. This project aims to address this evidence gap by evaluating the health and sustainability impacts of incorporating PBCs into the diet.
Research aims and methodology
The project involves two complementary approaches:
1. Experimental study: A randomised controlled dietary intervention trial will examine the effects of replacing butter with either dairy cheese or a coconut oil-based plant-based cheese on markers of cardiometabolic health.
2. Dietary modelling study: Using national dietary data (e.g., the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey), this component will model the nutritional, health, and environmental impacts of substituting dairy products with PBDAs/PBCs across the population.
Expected impact
This research will generate evidence to inform dietary guidelines and public health recommendations, supporting the shift toward diets that are both health-promoting and environmentally sustainable. The findings will also contribute to broader goals related to food system transformation and net-zero emissions targets.
Candidate profile and research environment
This PhD offers an interdisciplinary training opportunity at the intersection of nutrition, public health, and sustainability. The successful candidate will develop expertise in clinical trial design, dietary modelling, and policy-relevant research.
The project would suit an individual with a strong interest in human nutrition, cardiometabolic health, and sustainable food systems. The PhD will be based at the East Midlands National Centre of Sport and Exercise Medicine on the Loughborough University campus, offering access to world-class facilities and a supportive research environment.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor:Â Dr Oonagh Markey
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants should hold a minimum of a BSc honours degree at 2:1 level (or equivalent) in a health-related science degree, such as nutrition, human biology, biochemistry, or physiology. A relevant MSc degree, as well as experience running human nutrition trials/laboratory experience, will be advantageous.
International applications must also meet the standard institution English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element [reading, writing, listening, and speaking]).
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
£5,006 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£28,600 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025, January 2026, April 2026 and July 2026.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select School of Sport Exercise and Health Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number: SSEHS/OM25 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application:
Qualifications and experience:
- Degree level, grade and subject/relevance
- Relevant work experience/research experience
- Previous published work
Strength of research proposal and/or personal statement:
- Does the personal statement show a genuine interest to do a PhD?
- Does the candidate have the motivation to do a PhD?
- Has the candidate shown a keen interest in the specific project applied for?
- Is there a reasonable attempt to understand key literature in the proposed area of research?
Potential to perform well
- Are the references supportive of a candidate able and motivated to conduct academic research?
- Was the candidate able to perform well in the interview?
