Project Title Potassium Handling in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease (K-HANDLE CKD)

Supervisors: Dr. Caroline Richard, Assistant Professor Dr. Branko Braam

Project Start Date: January 2026 (flexible for outstanding candidates)

Project Description

We invite applications for a highly motivated PhD student to join the K-HANDLE CKD Study, a randomized, controlled feeding trial exploring how potassium from minimally processed versus ultra-processed foods impacts potassium bioavailability, plasma potassium levels, and overall potassium balance in adults living with stage 3B–5 chronic kidney disease (CKD). The successful candidate will be immersed in clinical nutrition research at the Human Nutrition Research Unit (HNRU), assisting with clinical visits (anthropometrics, body composition, questionnaires), controlled feeding interventions, and laboratory analyses.

Qualifications

- M.Sc. in Nutrition, Physiology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline. - Knowledge in renal physiology and dietetics is an asset.

- Familiarity with CKD, potassium metabolism, or clinical feeding trials advantageous.

- Excellent organizational skills, written and verbal communication, and ability to work within a multidisciplinary team. Funding

- Annual stipend: $25,000 CAD; students are encouraged to apply for funding.

- Research and conference travel support included.

Location University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Application

Instructions

Interested candidates should email the following to Dr. Caroline Richard (cr5@ualberta.ca): - Letter of application describing research interests and relevant background.

- Curriculum Vitae (CV).

- Contact information for two academic references.

Email subject line: [PhD K-HANDLE CKD] Your name.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those most competitive will be contacted for an interview.