Dental implications of GLP-1 receptor obesity medicines

About the Project

The study of the oral effects of medications is of utmost importance in an aging multi-morbid yet dentate population. Obesity treatment medicines such as GLP-1 receptor agonists Wegovy and Mounjaro are now widely prescribed due to the high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the UK and beyond. Scant knowledge of the oral effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists exists, but it is largely based on small and low quality studies. Nonetheless, there is evidence to suggest that the effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists on oral health has been underestimated. This could represent a significant health inequality problem in future because of the combined high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and poor access to dental care in socioeconomically deprived areas. Therefore, research is urgently needed to systematically study the oral side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists to inform new public health strategies aimed at prevention and tackling the ever-widening health inequality gap.

This project therefore presents an exciting and unique PhD opportunity for a self-funded dentally-qualified candidate from anywhere in the world to pursue a clinical study in a prestigious academic Dental Hospital at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland in collaboration with world class nutrition scientists studying GLP-1 receptor agonists at the Rowett Institute. As part of their PhD programme, the self-funded candidate will undertake an observational and prospective two-armed study on the oral clinical effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists whilst learning a range of laboratory techniques to measure their effect on the oral microenvironment.

This synergistic collaboration between dental academics and nutrition scientists presents a unique supervisory opportunity for the PhD candidate to develop a genuine bench-to bedside effort that will combine excellence in scientific training and clinical observation to inform policy to tackle oral health inequalities.

This PhD research is timely because of the demand to understand how drugs that are revolutionising obesity treatment impact dental health.

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Dr Jane Smith (janesmith@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

Where will I study?

This PhD will be undertaken at the University of Aberdeen, which has a rich history of ground-breaking science and clinical treatment. The Dental School and Rowett Institute are located within the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition (SMMSN) campus. The PhD candidate will join a vibrant community of students and postdoctoral fellows representing a range of nationalities. Our students contribute to publications in high-impact journals, present their research at national and international conferences, and actively lead engaging outreach and public engagement initiatives.

• The Institute of Dentistry
• The Rowett Institute

Training:

The PhD supervisors and staff will offer comprehensive support and training to ensure the PhD student will be fully prepared to make meaningful, efficient, and impactful progress towards their PhD. Specific training will be provided in the latest histology, microscopy and neuroscience techniques. The PhD student will receive career development support and training providing a platform for her/his scientific development. She/he will participate in study design and interpretation, manuscript preparation, conference presentations and student supervision. In addition to skill training provided by the project, they will be encouraged to undertake University of Aberdeen transferable skills courses (e.g. Research practice; Generic transferable skills; Computing; Home office licensing; & Statistics).

Candidate Background:

Applicants must hold a Bachelor in Dental Surgery (or international equivalent).

The University of Aberdeen actively encourages applications from diverse career paths and backgrounds—including those returning from a career break, industry or other roles—and across all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status, amongst other protected characteristics.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

• Please note: This is a self-funded opportunity only.
• Formal applications can be completed online:https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/
• You should apply for Dentistry (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
• Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and the project title on the application form.
• Your application must include: a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
• If you are still undertaking your undergraduate degree, it is helpful to the selection panel if you could provide documentation showing your grades to date (this can be a screenshot from an online portal).
• Please note: Project supervisors will not respond to requests for funding assistance.

Funding Notes

This is a self-funded opportunity only.

Tuition fees for this programme are £5,006 pa. for UK/home students and £27,300 pa. for international students.

Additional research costs may also apply.