Evaluating the nutritional, cardiometabolic and environmental impact of replacing animal-derived dairy products with plant-based alternatives (Ref: SSEHS/SF-OM26)

About the Project

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 plantbased 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 plantbased 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 netzero 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.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Dr Oonagh Markey o.markey@lboro.ac.uk

Names of secondary supervisors:

Prof Rebecca Hardy (Loughborough University) https://www.lboro.ac.uk/schools/sport-exercise-healthsciences/people/rebecca-hardy/

Prof Julie Lovegrove (University of Reading) https://www.reading.ac.uk/food/ourstaff/julie-lovegrove

Entry requirements:

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 (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: Yes - Bench fee value: A bench fee is also payable on top of the tuition fee to cover specialist facilities or laboratory costs required for the research. This will be discussed with you as part of the application process, and you will be notified of any additional fee as part of your offer of admission.

Closing date of advert: 31st May 2026

Start date: October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:

All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select Loughborough and select Programme Ph.D. Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences (PSRP11). Please quote the advertised reference number SSEHS/SF-OM26 in your application.

Project search terms:

biochemistry, epidemiology, nutrition, physiology, cardiometabolic health, healthy ageing, planetary health, plant-based dairy alternatives, community and lifestyle Health

Email Address SSEHS:

ssehs.pgrapplications@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk