PhD Position – HoliCOW: The Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, in collaboration with the Centre for Microbiome Research, invites applications for two PhD positions under the research project “HoliCOW.” This project aims to decipher core host-microbiota interactions in cows to address the challenge of reducing methane emissions from ruminants. The successful candidates will contribute to a thorough mechanistic understanding of microbiological, biochemical, and genetic processes that influence methanogenesis in the cow rumen.
Designation: PhD Student
Research Area: Microbiology/bacteriology/biochemistry
Location: Centre for Microbiome Research, Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia
Eligibility/Qualification:
Project 1:
- Honours degree or MSc in microbiology/bioinformatics
- Emphasis on functional microbial multi-omic data analysis
- Knowledge of a programming language (e.g., Python/R)
- Desirable: Molecular laboratory, bacteriology, and/or cultivation-based experimental work
- Desirable: Network-based analysis of multi-omics data
Project 2:
- Honours degree or MSc in microbiology/bacteriology/biochemistry
- Emphasis on molecular techniques
- Desirable: Anaerobic microbiology
- Desirable: Single-cell sorting/sequencing, bioinformatic analyses of microbial functional omic data
- Knowledge of a programming language (e.g., Python/R)
Job Description: The PhD students will contribute to the research activities of the HoliCOW project, participating in experimental design, data analysis, biological interpretation, and manuscript preparation. Project 1 involves bioinformatics analyses of microbiome sequence data, while Project 2 focuses on high-throughput cultivation and characterization of core microbiota. Both projects offer opportunities for short-term research visits to external partners in Europe.
Outcomes: The research outcomes are expected to impact Australia’s commitment to the Global Methane Pledge, contributing to a collective effort to reduce global methane emissions by at least 30% by 2050.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should contact Professor Phil Pope via email at phil.pope@qut.edu.au for more information and application details.
Last Date for Apply: Until position filled
Scholarships: Candidates may be eligible to apply for research scholarships. Explore available research scholarships on the QUT website.
Keywords: Microbiome, Methanogenesis, Global Warming
Join us in tackling a critical environmental challenge and contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of host-microbiota interactions. Be a part of the HoliCOW project and make a meaningful impact on sustainable animal production and reducing the carbon footprint.
