PhD Studentship: Discovering new genes and developing a diagnostic tool for lipodystrophy, a step towards understanding lean type 2 diabetes

University of Exeter - HLS

The University of Exeter’s Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences is inviting applications for a PhD studentship funded by Diabetes UK to commence on 21 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. For eligible students the studentship will cover Home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £18,700 for 3 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. The student would be based in RILD Building in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences in Exeter.

Project:

While the health risks of obesity are well-known, there is a subset of individuals who maintain a healthy weight but still get cardiometabolic diseases, like Type 2 diabetes. These individuals store fat around their internal organs like the stomach, liver, and pancreas, rather than under their skin. This unusual fat storage leads to serious issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Doctors often miss these problems because these people appear healthy on the outside.

The student will use data from around 1 million people looking at their genes and medical records to address this clinically important condition. The research has two primary aims:

• Genetic discovery: to identify and understand the genes that might cause people to store fat around their organs, helping to find new treatments.
• Clinical Translation: To create a statistical tool that uses information from blood tests and medical records to help doctors identify patients with these hidden health risks.

As a PhD student, you will receive comprehensive training in genetic analysis, bioinformatics, and clinical research. You will be part of a world-leading department, benefiting from an extremely supportive research environment, cutting-edge facilities, and mentorship from leading experts.