The Department of Obesity & Endocrinology researches clinical aspects of obesity & diabetes in humans with particular reference to control of energy balance & complications of obesity such as diabetes and obstructive sleep apnoea. The Department works closely in partnership with the NHS Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology based at University Hospital Aintree. Subject Overview Techniques include functional neuroimaging of appetite control in endocrine disease in collaboration with MARIARC, real time measurement of appetite and studies of liver and muscle metabolism, including euglycaemic clamp studies, in obesity, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The group also conducts clinical trials and has close links with a number of research groups in Africa. In veterinary practice & research there are parallel interests in obesity and metabolic disease in companion animals, horses and cattle and basic research models of human disease. Pre-clinical research focuses on adipocyte biology, with particular interests in the endocrine products of adipose tissue, and has close links with the clinical groups. The key principle behind our research is the recognition over the last decade that to elucidate cell, organ or organismal function in health and disease requires an integrated approach utilising the best available cutting-edge technologies. We offer MPhil, PhD, MD and post-doctoral training programmes that provide exposure to the wide-range of disciplines on offer. Many of our students also are recognised for the role they play in communicating the science to the wider community. On completing their PhDs many of our students go on to take competitive post-doctoral positions in the UK or overseas, or elect to take alternative career paths in the NHS, government or the commercial sector.

Graduates of the Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease are well placed to choose from a wide range of career options. From taking up research related positions in government agencies, to undertaking research and development in the global pharmaceutical, biotech and health industries, our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to add value to future employers from day one. Many of our students are current medical and veterinary professionals in training and will use the skills they develop in the Institute either in clinical practice or in an academic clinical career. We encourage and welcome medical students considering intercalation both from this and other universities