Summary
The University of Exeter is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focusing on the critical challenge of optimising phage therapy for bacterial co-infections. As antibiotic resistance grows, phage therapy offers a promising alternative. This research will investigate how to effectively use phages against infections involving multiple bacterial species, ensuring that eliminating one pathogen doesn’t inadvertently allow another to thrive. The project aims to develop strategies to unlock the full potential of phage therapy as a next-generation antimicrobial treatment.
PhD Studentship: Phage Power – Optimising Treatments for Bacterial Co-Infections
Designation
PhD Studentship
Key Details
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Qualification Type | PhD |
| Funding For | UK Students, EU Students, International Students |
| Funding Amount | £21,805 Stipend (matching UK Research Council National Minimum, updated annually) plus UK/Home tuition fees. Additional research training and support funding of up to £5,000 per annum is also available. |
| Hours | Full Time |
| Reference | 5928 |
Research Area
This PhD studentship is focused on microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and phage therapy. Specifically, it addresses the optimisation of phage treatments for bacterial co-infections, exploring the complex interactions between multiple bacterial species and phage application strategies.
Location
University of Exeter – Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Cornwall, Penryn, UK
Eligibility/Qualification
This studentship is open to UK, EU, and International Students. Specific academic qualifications required for PhD admission at the University of Exeter would apply, typically a strong undergraduate or master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., microbiology, biology, biomedical science, genetics).
Scholarship Description
The GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme is funding this studentship. It includes a doctoral stipend matching the UK Research Council National Minimum (£21,805 p.a. for 2026/27, updated annually), covering UK tuition fees, and providing up to £5,000 per annum for additional research training and support. The project will delve into a crucial aspect of phage therapy: understanding and mitigating the risks associated with treating co-infections, where targeting one pathogen might affect others. The goal is to develop optimised strategies for successful phage application in complex bacterial environments.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via the ‘Apply’ button on the original job listing. Please refer to the specific application instructions and required documents on the University of Exeter’s official application portal, typically including a research proposal, academic transcripts, and references.
Last Date for Apply
21st October 2026
Apply Link
Apply for PhD Studentship – Phage Power
