Graduate Research Collaborator – Human Milk Fortification for Preterm & NICU Infants (Master’s / PhD Thesis)

Job title: Graduate Research Collaborator – Human Milk Fortification for Preterm & NICU Infants (Master’s / PhD Thesis)Company: Mom’s Pure Milk R&D FZ-LLC (MPM)Workplace type: Hybrid / Remote

Location: United Arab Emirates, Dubai About MPM Mom’s Pure Milk (MPM) is a UAE-based R&D company and the first of its kind in the region.

We are developing mother’s own milk (MOM) fortification: processing a mother’s own milk into a concentrated human milk powder so that her infant can receive an exclusive human milk diet. Our R&D arm works with hospitals, universities and public-sector bodies in the UAE and abroad. Its main focus is human milk nutrition for preterm and NICU infants.The opportunity We’re looking for Master’s and PhD students who want to do their thesis research with MPM on human milk fortification for preterm and NICU infants. MPM is building the evidence base for MOM-based fortification, with the long-term aim of moving on to clinical studies in NICU settings. Your thesis project will contribute directly to this groundwork. You’ll design and run your study with guidance from our team and support from your university supervisor.Research areasLaboratory and survey-based studies – open to Master’s and PhD students:MOM-based fortification: macronutrient and energy content of MOM fortified with a concentrated MOM powder, compared with preterm nutritional requirementsComparison of MOM-based fortification with human milk-based and bovine milk-based fortifiersComposition, stability and shelf-life of concentrated (lyophilised) MOM powder under different storage conditionsSurveys of NICU clinicians (neonatologists, nurses, dietitians) on fortification practices and their views on human milk-based fortifiersSurveys of mothers of NICU infants on milk expression, storage and lactation support needs (recruitment usually through a hospital NICU)Clinical studies involving NICU infants – open to PhD students, or students with existing hospital access:Observational studies in NICU settings on current human milk fortification practices, feeding tolerance and growth outcomes in preterm and very low birth weight (VLBW) infantsPhD candidates interested in contributing to future interventional studies of MOM-based fortification are encouraged to mention this in their application.You’re welcome to propose your own topic within this focus.What you’ll doDevelop a research question and protocol with MPM and your academic supervisorObtain ethics approval through your university and, for clinical studies, the hospital and relevant UAE authorityCollect and analyse data, and write up findings for your thesis and possible publicationShare progress with the MPM team at regular check-insWho we’re looking forCurrently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme at a recognised universityBackground in a relevant field, such as neonatology/paediatrics, clinical nutrition and dietetics, food science, pharmacy, microbiology, neonatal nursing/midwifery, or public healthA thesis topic that fits the areas above, or flexibility to shape oneSupport from your academic supervisor for an industry-partnered projectFor clinical studies: an existing affiliation with a hospital NICU, or a realistic route to oneSolid research methods skills, and strong written and spoken English (Arabic is a plus)UAE-based candidates are preferred. International candidates are welcome for laboratory or survey-based studies.What MPM offersResearch in an emerging field, with access to relevant process data where approvedGuidance from an industry co-supervisor at MPMCo-authorship or acknowledgement in resulting publications, as agreed in advanceChances to present findings at conferences and partner meetingsPotential involvement in future clinical studies for suitable PhD candidatesA reference letter when the project is completed successfullyFlexible, thesis-friendly schedulingHow to apply Apply through LinkedIn, or email HR@momspuremilk.com, with:Your CVYour university, programme and supervisor’s nameA short (half-page to one-page) note on your proposed research area and thesis timelineFor clinical studies: details of the hospital or NICU you have access toAll studies follow approved ethics protocols and informed-consent procedures. Data handling, publication and intellectual property terms are agreed in writing before a project starts.