PhD Studentship in Molecular Microbiology and Antibiotic Discovery

The University of East Anglia offers a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship focused on discovering new antibiotics from Streptomyces strains. The project aims to overcome the challenge of silent biosynthetic gene clusters by applying advanced genetic methods to activate cryptic metabolic pathways. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in molecular microbiology, natural products chemistry, and bioinformatics. The role is supported by the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership and provides an exceptional foundation for an academic or industrial career.

• Apply genetic methods to target and manipulate regulatory networks controlling specialised metabolite production in Streptomyces strains.
• Develop innovative laboratory protocols to activate silent and cryptic biosynthetic pathways.
• Perform biochemical analyses and bioinformatics evaluations to screen for novel antibiotic compounds.
• Collaborate with research teams and support the training of laboratory visitors in knowledge exchange activities.
• Communicate research findings effectively through written reports and oral presentations.