From Bean to Brain: Decoding cacao’s phytochemical diversity and tryptophan-mediated gut-brain interactions

Overview

A PhD position is available for a talented student interested in the exploration and scientific validation of Indigenous knowledge about plants and their medicinal properties.

The student will join a collaborative team investigating the medicinal properties of cacao. Within indigenous Meso and South American cultures, multiple Theobroma species with varied ecological niches and phytochemical profiles have been used traditionally in diets and as medicines. Numerous compounds identified within cacao have been linked to health benefits. This includes tryptophan, which can be metabolised via the kynurenine, serotonin and indole pathways in the gastrointestinal tract to regulate inflammation, immunity, and neuronal function.

This project aims to understand how species, geographical, and processing differences affect the therapeutic effects of cacao extracts, such as those mediated through tryptophan metabolism. Through expanded knowledge of cacao phytochemicals and their health impacts, this research will inform culturally-appropriate health interventions, that may provide economic and biodiversity benefits to Indigenous communities.

Candidate requirements

The PhD position requires the applicant to be eligible for admission to the PhD programme at the University of Otago and to be eligible for a doctoral scholarship.

A GPA of 8.0 or greater is essential.

Preference will be given to candidates with a BSc(Hons) , MSc or equivalent, with a research background in biochemistry, pharmacology, or related discipline.

Expertise in phytochemical extraction and HPLC are required, with training provided in cell and tissue culture, quantitative PCR , enzyme and immune assays.

The successful student will be supported in their application for a University of Otago Doctoral scholarship. This scholarship is worth NZ$33,624 pa for three years, tax free with tuition fees waived for students residing in New Zealand and studying under a New Zealand student visa.

Starting date is flexible but preferably by early 2026.

If interested, apply by email and include the following in your application:

• A copy of your CV
• A copy of your academic transcript
• A pdf copy of your research dissertation or thesis (if available)
• A written statement (300–500 words) outlining why this project interests you
• Evidence of English language ability

Please note that the university has strict requirements with regards to this, and there are no exceptions.

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago