Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Behaviour, Physiology, and Ecology of Antimicrobial Resistance in Wild Baboons Swansea University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship at Swansea University offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the behaviour, physiology, and ecology of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in wild chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) at the human–wildlife interface. The project addresses the growing concern of AMR transmission between humans and wildlife, a phenomenon with significant implications for animal and public health as well as ecosystem stability. The research will be conducted as part of a larger programme examining baboon behaviour and physiology across multiple sites in South Africa, leveraging established collaborations with the University of Cape Town and Swansea Research Fellows.

The successful candidate will test key hypotheses regarding how baboon behaviour, social relationships, and health status influence AMR exposure and transmission in human-modified landscapes. The project will employ state-of-the-art tracking collars (GPS and accelerometers) to collect high-resolution data on baboon movement, social network dynamics, and space use. Non-invasive sampling of urine and faeces will be used to assess energetic and health status, while faecal and environmental samples will provide microbiology and genomics data. Individual-level factors such as age, sex, and dominance rank will also be considered, offering a comprehensive view of AMR emergence and spread at the human–baboon interface.

The supervisory team brings world-leading expertise in behavioural ecology and endocrinology (Dr Imke Fürtbauer), microbial ecology (Dr Xavier Harrison), social behaviour (Professor Andrew King), and animal cognition (Dr Nicky Boogert). The student will benefit from unique training in advanced field and laboratory techniques, cutting-edge analytical approaches, and professional development within a supportive and productive research environment. Fieldwork in South Africa is a key component, providing hands-on experience with wild baboon populations and exposure to international research collaborations.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25), a £16,000 Research Training and Support Grant, and a £1,920 fieldwork budget. Applicants must hold, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant science or technology field. Those with a Lower Second Class degree may be considered if they also have a Master’s degree or significant relevant experience. Quantitative experience is essential and can be demonstrated through coursework, research projects, or professional activities. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme’s English language requirements by 1st June prior to the start date.

The SWBio DTP is committed to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and can accommodate reasonable project adaptations, flexible working, and part-time study requests. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the listed supervisor to discuss any specific needs or questions about the project.

Applications should be submitted online via the Swansea University postgraduate scholarships portal. For further details and to apply, visit the official scholarship webpage. The application deadline is 3 December 2025, with the studentship commencing on 1 September 2026.