How exposure to metals adapts bacteria to increase bacterial persistence, antimicrobial resistance and potentiate infection University of Leicester in United Kingdom

This PhD position at the University of Leicester, available for a September 2026 start, investigates the dual role of metals such as copper as both essential micronutrients and potent antimicrobials. Copper is required by most organisms for vital biological processes, but its toxicity at elevated concentrations makes it useful in healthcare settings and within hosts to control microbial growth. The project will explore the mechanisms by which copper functions as a micronutrient, the cellular and molecular pathways involved in copper homeostasis, and how copper's toxicity is harnessed for antimicrobial purposes.

The research may involve laboratory experiments, biochemical assays, and possibly clinical or healthcare applications. The University of Leicester provides a vibrant research environment for students interested in biochemistry, microbiology, and the intersection of chemistry and medical science. Funding details and specific entry requirements are not provided in the current description. Interested applicants should monitor the university's website for updates regarding application procedures and eligibility criteria.