The University of Exeter Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Cornwall is offering a PhD opportunity focused on understanding how host microbiome dynamics affect wildlife disease. The project will use a One Health framework to investigate how microbiome changes in European badgers influence their susceptibility to bovine tuberculosis (bTB), and how these patterns are shaped by host social interactions and space use. This interdisciplinary research combines molecular and bioinformatic techniques, statistical modelling, and field sampling, providing a comprehensive training environment for the successful candidate. The project is supervised by Xav Harrison and Associate Professor Barbara Tschirrren, both based at the University of Exeter. The research will be conducted within a vibrant academic community at the Centre for Ecology and Conservation, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and field sites in Cornwall. The study is ideal for candidates interested in disease ecology, wildlife health, host-pathogen interactions, and the application of molecular and computational methods to ecological questions. Applicants should have a strong background in biology, ecology, or a related field, and experience with molecular and bioinformatic techniques, statistical modelling, and field sampling is desirable. The position is suitable for those with a good undergraduate or master's degree in a relevant discipline. The deadline for applications is December 3rd, 2025. For more information and to apply, please visit the project page linked in the announcement.

A fully funded PhD opportunity is available at the University of Exeter Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Cornwall, focusing on the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through ecosystems. The project combines ecological fieldwork, including rodent trapping, habitat surveys, and pheasant sampling, with advanced molecular techniques, GIS, and spatial modelling to investigate how AMR moves across trophic levels and environments. The position is part of the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership and offers a cross-disciplinary supervisory team: Barbara Tschirrren, Irene Bueno Padilla, Xav Harrison, and Mario Recker. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research community and gain expertise in disease ecology, host-pathogen interactions, and wildlife disease. Applicants should have a background in biology, ecology, or related disciplines, and experience in fieldwork or molecular methods is advantageous. The program provides funding for four years, covering stipend and tuition. The application deadline is December 3rd, 2025. For more details and to apply, visit the provided link.

<p>The University of Exeter Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Cornwall is offering a PhD opportunity focused on understanding how host microbiome dynamics affect wildlife disease, specifically in European badgers. The project will use a One Health framework to investigate how microbiome changes influence susceptibility to bovine tuberculosis (bTB) and how these patterns are shaped by host social interactions and space use. </p><p>This interdisciplinary project combines molecular and bioinformatic techniques, statistical modelling, and field sampling. It is supervised by Xav Harrison and Associate Professor Barbara Tschirrren, both based at the University of Exeter. The research will provide valuable insights into disease ecology, host-pathogen interactions, and the role of the microbiome in wildlife health.</p><p>Applicants should have a strong background in biology, ecology, or a related field, with experience in molecular and bioinformatic techniques, statistical modelling, and fieldwork considered advantageous. A good undergraduate or master's degree (2:1 or above or equivalent) is typically required, and English language proficiency may be necessary for non-native speakers.</p><p>For more information and to apply, visit the project link. The application deadline is December 3rd, 2025.</p>

<p>The University of Exeter Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Cornwall is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position to investigate how antimicrobial resistance (AMR) spreads through ecosystems. This interdisciplinary project combines ecological fieldwork, including rodent trapping, habitat surveys, and pheasant sampling, with advanced molecular techniques, GIS, and spatial modelling. The aim is to understand the mechanisms and pathways by which AMR moves across different trophic levels and environments.</p><p>The successful candidate will join a cross-disciplinary supervisory team consisting of Barbara Tschirrren, Irene Bueno Padilla, Xav Harrison, and Mario Recker. The project is funded by the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), which covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses. The research will be based at the University of Exeter's Centre for Ecology and Conservation, located in Cornwall, United Kingdom.</p><p>Applicants should have a strong background in ecology, biology, or a related discipline. Experience with fieldwork, molecular biology, GIS, or spatial modelling is highly desirable. A good undergraduate degree (2:1 or above or equivalent) is typically required, and non-native English speakers may need to provide evidence of English language proficiency.</p><p>The deadline for applications is December 3rd, 2025. For more information and to apply, please visit the provided link. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in disease ecology, host-pathogen interactions, and the environmental dimensions of antimicrobial resistance.</p>