Understanding the metabolic effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists and exercise for patients with heart failure
This world first study will aim to better understand the metabolic impacts of GLP-1 treatments and effects of exercise in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Heart failure affects over 60 million people globally. A major reason for this is the rise in a type called heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which most commonly affects older adults. As the population ages and more people become overweight and obese, HFpEF is expected to become even more widespread. Currently there are limited treatments which have been found to improve outcomes, quality of life, and symptom burden.
Recently, weight loss medications that target glucagon-like-peptide—1 receptor (GLP-1 receptor) have shown promise for treating HFpEF. However, we still do not fully understand the physiological effects of these drugs on the body. There is also concern that rapid weight loss, without supportive care strategies such as exercise, could lead to excessive muscle loss (called sarcopenia) which can be harmful.
This project would suit applicants with a background in exercise physiology or exercise science.
Join us:
Applications are invited for a PhD candidate to work on this project as part of the Baker-Deakin Department of Lifestyle and Diabetes, under the supervision of A/Prof Erin Howden, Prof David Dunstan, Prof Robin Daly, and Dr Sarah Gutman.
Eligibility criteria
- Applicants must meet Deakin’s PhD entry requirements, be enrolling full time and hold an Honours degree (First Class) or an equivalent standard Master’s degree with a substantial research component (including a Thesis component). Please refer to the entry pathways to higher degrees by research for further information.
- Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree with research component in the field of physical activity and chronic disease management.
- Fluency in verbal and written English (evidence of English proficiency is required), highly motivated and able to work in a multidisciplinary team.
- The opportunity is open to domestic and international students.
Key dates and other information
- Start date: We are looking for a suitable candidate to start as soon as possible.
- Scholarship: We will work with suitably qualified applicants to apply for scholarship funding.
- To apply: Refer to our How to apply webpage for more information
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