A fully funded BBSRC SWBio DTP CASE PhD studentship is available at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), in collaboration with the University of Bristol and diagnostics company Vidiia. The project focuses on investigating how gut microbiome metabolites influence intestinal epithelial barrier function, inflammation, and homeostasis, with the aim of developing rapid molecular readouts of gut health. The successful candidate will use advanced techniques such as intestinal epithelial cell lines, 3D organoids, RNA-seq time courses, and RT-LAMP assays to model gut barrier responses and explore relevant signalling pathways, including those linked to barrier integrity, inflammation, and early cancer processes. The interdisciplinary supervisory team includes Alexander Greenhough (UWE Bristol), Prof Emma Vincent (University of Bristol), Dr Aurore Poirier (Vidiia Ltd), and Dr Alexandros Stratakos (UWE Bristol). The student will benefit from co-supervision with industry partner Vidiia, gaining insight into diagnostic development and opportunities for industry-based training or placements. This CASE studentship is ideal preparation for careers in academia, biotech, diagnostics, or translational research. Applicants should have a background in biomedical science, molecular or cellular biology, or related disciplines. The SWBio DTP is committed to inclusivity and flexible working, with options for part-time study. Funding is fully provided, covering tuition and stipend, with additional industry training opportunities. For more details and application instructions, contact Alexander Greenhough or visit the provided project links.

<p>The School of Applied Sciences at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) is pleased to announce additional fully funded PhD studentship positions through the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership. These studentships offer the opportunity to undertake cutting-edge research in biosciences, with a focus on three exciting projects:</p> <ul> <li><b>Microbial metabolites as signals for gut cell communication:</b> This project aims to map epithelial signalling and develop rapid readouts in model systems, supervised by Professor Alexander Greenhough and Dr Alexandros Stratakos.</li> <li><b>Impact of plant extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) on gastrointestinal cells:</b> Supervised by Dr Jacqueline Barnett, this project investigates how plant-derived vesicles interact with and affect gut cell biology.</li> <li><b>CRISPR-based epigenetic engineering of plant and fungal metabolism:</b> Led by Dr Katherine Williams (in collaboration with the University of Exeter), this project explores the use of CRISPR technology to modify metabolic pathways in plants and fungi.</li> </ul> <p>All projects are part of the SWBio DTP, which provides comprehensive training and support for doctoral researchers. The studentships are fully funded, covering tuition fees and a competitive stipend for living expenses. UK and eligible international students are encouraged to apply.</p> <p><b>Eligibility:</b> Applicants should hold or expect to achieve a first or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as biology, biomedical sciences, or biochemistry. Laboratory experience and familiarity with molecular biology techniques are advantageous. English language requirements apply for non-native speakers.</p> <p><b>Application Process:</b> For full project details and application instructions, please visit the provided project links. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisors directly for informal discussions about the projects. Applications should be submitted via the SWBio DTP or university application portal as specified in the project descriptions.</p> <p><b>Deadline:</b> Applications are due by 28 December 2025.</p> <p>These studentships offer an excellent opportunity to join a vibrant research community and contribute to impactful bioscience research at UWE Bristol and partner institutions.</p>