PhD Studentship: Enhancing the Otago Exercise Programme to Preserve Bone Health in Women with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis

Project:

Exercise can preserve bone mineral density, but high-impact or heavy-load programmes may be unsuitable or unappealing for women with osteopenia or osteoporosis, particularly where weakness, impaired balance or fear of falling are also present. This PhD will develop a more accessible alternative by enhancing the established, home-based Otago Exercise Programme. Exercise bands will provide resistance throughout each movement, while high-speed contractions will aim to increase rate of force development and skeletal loading.

The PhD candidate will complete four linked studies: an evidence review; a laboratory electromyography comparison of traditional and banded Otago exercises; a feasibility and repeatability study in adults aged over 55 years; and a 12-month clinical study comparing usual NHS care, banded Otago and high-speed banded Otago in postmenopausal women with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Bone mineral density, measured by DEXA and blood based bio-markers, will be the primary outcome, supported by measures of strength, balance, falls, fear of falling and body composition.

The PhD candidate will gain experience in exercise prescription, surface electromyography, DEXA, clinical research, patient and public involvement, and mixed research methods while working with the University of Hull, Osprey charity and the local NHS Trust.

Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 honours degree, or equivalent, in sport and exercise science, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, biomechanics, human movement science or a closely related subject. A relevant taught MSc or Masters by Research is highly desirable. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in exercise for clinical or older populations, strong communication and organisational skills, and the ability to work sensitively with participants and clinical partners. Experience of exercise delivery, electromyography, DEXA, biomechanics, clinical research, systematic reviewing or statistical analysis would be beneficial, but training will be provided. For further details, please see the University's postgraduate admissions webpage. This

How to Apply:

Applicants should submit the University's online application and a personal statement explaining their motivation for doctoral study, interest in this project, relevant skills and experience, any training needs, and their understanding of the wider significance and future direction of the research. A separate research proposal is not required.

To apply, click on the apply button above.

For informal enquires please contact:

Dr Steve Hayes – S.Hayes@hull.ac.uk

Supervisors:

Dr Steve Hayes; Dr Thomas Nickolay; Professor Natalie Vanicek.

Funding:

This is a three-year, full-time funded PhD studentship supported by Osprey and match-funded by the local NHS Trust. The successful applicant will receive a Home tuition-fee waiver and a maintenance stipend at the applicable UKRI rate, increasing annually in line with UKRI guidance. Project funding is also available for supplements, equipment and testing. No stipend or tuition-fee waiver is available during any additional writing-up period.

International applicants:

The award provides a Home fee waiver only. Only Available to home students.

Closing date: 16/11/26 at 17:00