Genetic and molecular underpinnings of obesity – using veterinary models for insight into human disease

Why are some individuals prone to obesity and yet others stay lean in an obesogenic environment? Obesity is highly heritable as are related metabolic traits. We study obesity genetics ‘in the round’ starting from genetic discovery studies using GWAS and other epidemiological approaches to molecular studies of gene function via physiological and behavioural studies in companion animal species.

Capitalising on my background as a vet, we start with animal genetics – dogs, horses and farm animals are excellent models because selective breeding means they show phenotypes of interest and their genomes are conducive to gene mapping. We translate our findings from animals into findings of relevance to human biology by interrogating large human genomic data sets. Genes of greatest interest to both humans and animals are further investigated in the lab with cellular studies to understand mechanism, focussing on neuronal development, cell signalling and adipocyte biology. We also study whole body physiology in pet dogs volunteered by their owners.

Our lab is supportive and collaborative and we welcome students with cell biology, genetics, medical sciences, clinical and many other backgrounds to apply. A bioinformatics background is not required, but a willingness to engage with statistics and ‘big data’ is a must for most students in the group. You must be interested in metabolic diseases, energy homeostasis. You would work in the dynamic Department of Physiology, Development and Neurosciences, embedding you in the impressive research culture of Cambridge. We have strong links to the Institute of Metabolic Science and carry out some work with collaborators at the Dept. Veterinary Medicine.

If this work appeals to you, please get in touch with your CV, explaining why you are interested in the field and why you think you would be a strong candidate to join the group. I am happy to design projects to suit the interests and skills of a student and can support students with a genuine interest in our field and a background likely to make them competitive for funding to develop a research proposal as part of your application to the numerous funding streams available at Cambridge. Some, particularly veterinary trained, candidates may be suitable for applying for personal fellowships.