PhD Studentship: Understanding the Microbiome and Phageome in Chronic Lung Infections for the Development of Phage Therapy

This PhD project at the University of East Anglia, based at the Quadram Institute Bioscience, focuses on advancing personalised phage therapy for bronchiectasis, a chronic respiratory disease affecting a significant population in the UK. The research aims to deepen understanding of the bacterial and phage communities present in bronchiectasis sputum, with the goal of improving clinical outcomes through tailored phage therapy. The work is primarily computational, involving bioinformatics analyses of the microbiome and phageome, complemented by laboratory tasks such as DNA extraction and microbial isolation. The student will join Dr Evelien Adriaenssens’s group, an expert in viromes and microbiome research, and receive support from Prof Eleanor Mishra, a respiratory consultant and associate clinical professor. The Quadram Institute offers a vibrant research environment at the intersection of fundamental and translational microbiome research, with extensive training opportunities, scientific support, and funding for conference attendance. The project is funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and includes a 4-year fully-funded studentship: tuition fees are paid directly to the university, a generous annual stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), and a Research Training Support Grant. Applicants should have at least an Upper Second-Class Honours degree (2:1) in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Bioinformatics, with expertise in either microbiology, molecular biology, or bioinformatics and a willingness to learn complementary skills. Advanced bioinformatics skills, including command-line proficiency, are essential. English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6 in each category. The successful candidate will benefit from a dynamic research community and comprehensive support, preparing them for a wide range of future careers. The position starts on 1 October 2026. For application details and eligibility, visit the provided university link.