PhD Studentship: Antibiotic Discovery in Streptomyces Bacteria
Uncover novel antibiotics by activating silent biosynthetic pathways in Streptomyces bacteria.
Best for:Best for biology or biochemistry graduates with an interest in microbiology, molecular genetics, and metabolomics.
Overview
The University of East Anglia invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship focused on discovering new antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance. Working within the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership, the student will investigate genetic regulators controlling specialized metabolism in Streptomyces species. The project involves identifying gene targets in model organisms, examining overexpression effects in environmental strains, and employing comparative metabolomics. The successful candidate is expected to generate actionable insights into silent biosynthetic pathways and contribute to the global antibiotic discovery pipeline.
What you'll do
- Identify all gene targets of the key spore-phase regulator in Streptomyces venezuelae.
- Examine the effects of regulator overexpression on specialized metabolism in environmental Streptomyces strains.
- Utilize comparative metabolomics approaches to discover and isolate new antibiotic molecules.
- Analyze bacterial lifecycles, sporulation processes, and gene expression patterns.
- Prepare scientific reports, present research findings at academic conferences, and publish papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant biological or biochemical science field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Background in molecular biology, microbiology, or biochemistry
- Familiarity with bacterial genetics and gene regulation principles
- Analytical mindset with interest in metabolomics or natural product discovery
- Open to applicants meeting the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership eligibility criteria
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Interested applicants should review the project details and submit their application through the University of East Anglia postgraduate research admissions portal before the specified deadline. Ensure all required supporting documents are uploaded correctly.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
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