Physiological and psychological mechanisms of resistance to weight loss

This PhD research project examines the physiological and psychological determinants of food intake during dietary and/or exercise-induced weight loss. While marked individual variability exists in dietary and exercise-induced weight loss, the adaptive biological and behavioural responses that resist weight loss and drive weight regain remain unclear. The project aims to identify mechanisms that predict successful long-term weight loss and weight loss maintenance, with particular interest in compensatory changes in eating behaviour that undermine attempts to induce energy deficit and promote weight relapse. The project will develop models of energy balance that describe the drivers of appetite and energy intake during weight loss, identify physiological, metabolic and behavioural mechanisms that resist weight loss and underpin weight relapse, and identify predictors of successful weight loss maintenance. This is a non-funded PhD position, though applicants can apply for separate funding opportunities including Leeds Doctoral Scholarships and other awards. The position is based in the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds, supervised by Dr Mark Hopkins, with a start date of October 2026 and an application deadline of May 31, 2026. Applicants must have at least a first class or upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate discipline.