MSc Scholarship - Interplay between maternal one-carbon metabolism and epigenetic regulation of cardiac energy expenditure in offspring

20 Jan 2020
20 Jan 2020

Applications are invited for an NRF-Funded MSc Scholarship on the interplay between maternal one-carbon metabolism and epigenetic regulation of cardiac energy expenditure in offspring. The overall aim of the proposed study is to determine the extent to which intrauterine exposure to an obesogenic environment affect epigenetic regulation (particularly DNA methylation) of genes involved in postnatal cardiac energy metabolism and functional outcomes. It entails using an in vivo rat model to identify high fat high sugar diet-induced changes in one-carbon metabolism (a pathway that provides methyl groups for DNA methylation) and the extent to which this metabolic shift affect fetal programming of cardiac energy metabolism as well as metabolic syndrome at adulthood. Simultaneously, the role of methyl donor nutrients (select micronutrients) in ameliorating the observed changes will be assessed; the study intends to explore dietary fortification of nutrients that are abundantly found in green leafy vegetables. Understanding these dynamics could provide a platform through which low risk and cost-effective prenatal dietary strategies may be developed to reduce premature mortalities associated with adult cardiovascular complications.

VALUE, PERIOD AND CONDITIONS OF THE AWARD

  • The value of the award is R50 000 per annum.
  • Annual renewals may be possible and will, if awarded, be subject to proof of satisfactory progress in line with NRF scholarship conditions.
  • The maximum period for the award is 2 years.

ELIGIBILITY

  • South African citizens, including permanent residents.
  • A successfully completed Honours Degree in Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
  • Experience in in vivo rat models and proficiency in molecular techniques such as gene and protein expression analysis are compulsory.

ADVANTAGE

  • Experience in maternal nutrition studies using rodents as well as statistical analysis.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Applicants are required to submit the following:

  • Cover letter indicating why you are appropriate for the award (max 1 page).
  • Curriculum vitae including 2 references.
  • Certified copy of your qualifications.
  • Certified copy of your ID book.

Start date 01 April 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter.

For further inquiries, please contact Dr Lawrence Mabasa at 021-938-0271, Lawrence.mabasa@mrc.ac.za

Closing Date: 12 February 2020