Published: 22 Aug 2022 991 views
Multiple micronutrient deficiencies are common among women in low-income countries and may adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. Studies have focused on assessing the effect of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) given to pregnant women at 1 x the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) on birth outcomes and found improved effect on infant outcomes such as low-birthweight and small for gestational age. A small number of studies have explored the impact on breast milk composition, but these have focused more in colostrum than on mature milk. The effects of multiple micronutrient supplementation given to pregnant women at >1 RDA level on breastfeeding and breastmilk composition is largely unexplored.
The successful candidate will initially be expected to conduct a narrative review on impact of micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy on breastmilk, breastfeeding and early postnatal growth. They will be expected to use data and samples from the “VIRUTUBISHO” maternal supplementation trial but also to develop an independent scientific proposal to go through the ethical and scientific approval process to support collection of additional data &/or samples that may be required. Using evidence from the narrative review, the PhD student will be expected to select a panel of micronutrients for subsequent specific focus and to use collected data and samples to investigate the impact of increasing maternal supply of micronutrients in pregnancy on breastmilk micronutrient concentrations. This PhD project will further evaluate the extent to which women meet their breastfeeding goals (set during pregnancy) by determining the breastfeeding status of infants born to supplemented women and comparing between trial arms.
| Application Deadline | 09 Sep 2022 |
| Type | PhD |
| Sponsor | KEMRI Wellcome Trust |
| Gender | Men and Women |
Scholarship is fully-funded
Applicants must have attained at least an upper 2nd class degree or its equivalent in Nutrition &/or Biochemistry and a masters’ degree in Public health, Nutrition or a related field. Successful candidates should also demonstrate strong experience in laboratory sample analysis.
For undergraduate degrees that are not classified, ensure your average score through the four/three years is above 60 (GPA above 3.3). Provide a certified proof of the same from your University.
Studentships are awarded competitively through shortlisting of online applications and subsequent face to face (or online) interviews.
FURTHER INFORMATION: Please direct all other concerns/questions to Dr. Dorcas Mbuvi [[email protected]].
For more details, visit the website.
