Plastics, one of the greatest innovations of the 20th century, have become indispensable due to their advantageous qualities. However, their non-biodegradable nature leads to significant environmental issues, with plastic waste accumulating in landfills and oceans. Globally, only 18% of plastic waste is recycled, while 24% is incinerated, and a staggering 58% ends up in landfills or the natural environment. With an annual production of around 50 million tonnes, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) significantly contributes to this growing problem.

Recent discoveries have shown that bacteria and fungi possess thermophilic hydrolases capable of catalysing PET hydrolysis at elevated temperatures. Notably, the PETase from Ideonella sakaiensis efficiently digests PET at room temperature but is challenging to produce industrially due to its low solubility.

Our preliminary research indicates that type I PETase-like proteins, exclusively derived from Gram-positive Actinobacteria, represent a significant group of PETase homologs. Actinobacteria, known for their prolific antibiotic production and bioremediation capabilities, inhabit diverse ecological niches and may offer new enzyme candidates for PET biodegradation. This project aims to systematically explore Actinobacteria's potential as a source of PETases and optimise these enzymes using artificial intelligence.

This pioneering research will provide new insights into the biodegradation of PET, impacting fields such as microbiology, bioinformatics, biochemistry, and environmental science. By developing novel and efficient PETases, this project addresses a pressing environmental challenge and paves the way for enhanced plastic waste biodegradation and recycling strategies.

The student will be part of a dynamic research team with access to world-class facilities and a supportive academic environment. We offer the access to world-class research facilities, trainings in advanced microbiology, bioinformatics, and deep learning techniques. The student is encouraged to present their research at national and international conferences.

The candidate should have strong background in microbiology, biotechnology, bioinformatics, or related fields. Experience with molecular biology techniques and bioinformatics is desirable.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications should be made by emailing [email protected] with:

·      a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees);

·      a covering letter – stating your project choice, as well as including whatever additional information you feel is pertinent to your application

·      copies of your relevant undergraduate degree transcripts and certificates;

·      a copy of your IELTS or TOEFL English language certificate (where required);

·      a copy of your passport (photo page).

A GUIDE TO THE FORMAT REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE

Please submit your documents in the following format only:

• each document should be submitted as a separate attachment and should be named as follows: [candidate surname, candidate name – [document]]. For example: Jones, Jamie – CV; Jones, Jamie – personal statement; Jones, Jamie – BSc transcript.
• Please submit .pdf documents where possible for your CV, personal statement, transcripts and certificates. Do not submit photos of certificates.
• Do not combine documents into one pdf. You may zip separate documents into a zip file to send via email if required.
• Please only send the Application Details Form 2025 as a Word document (not pdf), named as follows: Application Details Form – surname, name.
• When emailing your application, please use the email subject header: NEEDL Application 2025

Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.

Informal enquiries may be made to [email protected]

The deadline for all applications is 12noon on Monday 31 ^st March 2025.