Influence of adiposity on iron metabolism and requirements during pregnancy and postpartum

Summary

Obesity is the most common medical condition in women of reproductive age with up to 50% of women entering pregnancy with overweight or obesity. Pregnant women with overweight/obesity face increased risk for numerous adverse pregnancy and childbirth outcomes, including gestational diabetes, hypertension, congenital malformations, premature birth, stillbirth, and macrosomia¹. Maternal overweight/obesity is also associated with long-term risk of obesity, T2D, and coronary heart disease among the offspring².

Anaemia is global health concern affecting approximately 25% of the worlds population³, with the largest group of affected individuals being women of reproductive age (15-49 years)⁴. The reduction of anaemia is a target of Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), to strive for a better and more sustainable future for all.

In the UK, one in three pregnant women and one in four in the postpartum period develop Iron Deficiency Anaemia⁵. Anaemia can have serious maternal and infant health consequences including postpartum haemorrhage, stillbirth, and preterm delivery^6,7 as well as increased risk of neonatal anaemia^8,9 and neurodevelopmental, cognitive, and behavioural disorders in the infants¹⁰.

The coexistence of overweight/obesity and IDA presents a dual health burden for those who are planning or become pregnant, yet research on the risk factors and health consequences of this obesity related malnutrition is sparse. Given that iron demands are significantly higher during pregnancy, we suggest that current recommendations are not sufficient to cover these higher iron demands, or to protect the health of the mother, particularly in the postpartum period, and in the presence of overweight/obesity. A more in depth understanding of the causes of IDA, particularly in the context of maternal obesity, is critical to inform appropriate strategies for future prevention.

Through a number of systematic approaches, this research aims to examine the influence of maternal adiposity on iron metabolism during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.

This PhD is fully funded by Solvotrin Therapeutics. The PhD researcher will have a key role in the management and co-coordination of a randomised controlled trial which will examine the influence of iron supplementation on maternal and infant iron status and other important health outcomes during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. This research is a collaboration between NICHE, Ulster University, Solvotrin Therapeutics and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, NI.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Research proposal of 1500 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Solvotrin Therapeutics

The scholarship is open to UK/ROI applicants.  The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home/ROI rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,237 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance..
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.