PhD Studentship: Cracking the Host-Pathogen Metabolic Code in Tuberculosis
Investigate host lipid metabolism to develop innovative therapeutic strategies against tuberculosis.
Best for:Best for biology or biomedical graduates with an interest in infectious disease, lipid metabolism, and host-pathogen interactions.
Overview
The University of Exeter is offering a four-year PhD studentship as part of the GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme. This research project focuses on understanding how Mycobacterium tuberculosis exploits host lipid pathways to survive and proliferate. The successful candidate will utilize lipidomics, zebrafish models, and clinical samples to determine how a novel immunomodulatory compound can reprogram host metabolism to enhance immune responses. This position is part of a competitive cohort of 18 MRC-funded studentships across the partnership, aiming to address the urgent global need for new tuberculosis treatments.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research on host lipid pathways during tuberculosis infection.
- Apply lipidomics techniques to analyze metabolic changes in host cells.
- Utilize zebrafish models to study infection dynamics and immune responses.
- Analyze clinical samples to validate findings and identify therapeutic targets.
- Collaborate with the wider GW4 BioMed3 doctoral cohort and research partners.
- Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency required.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in molecular biology or immunology.
- Experience with laboratory research techniques.
- Ability to design and execute complex experimental protocols.
- Capacity for critical analysis of biological data.
- Open to UK and International students.
- Must meet the academic entry requirements for a PhD program at the University of Exeter.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Interested candidates should apply through the official university funding portal. Ensure all required academic documentation is prepared according to the university's postgraduate admissions guidelines.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Reference letters
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