Marie-Curie PhD Studentship - MetaExplore: Functional Metagenomics and Novel Biocatalysts for a Sustainable Circular Economy University of Cambridge in United Kingdom

[Marie Curie network funding for 3 years; fixed-term from 1st February 2026 to 31st January 2029. Full studentship including stipend and tuition fees.]

The University of Cambridge is offering a Marie-Curie PhD Studentship as part of the MetaExplore network, focusing on functional metagenomics and the discovery of novel biocatalysts for a sustainable circular economy. This 3-year doctoral position, supervised by Professor Florian Hollfelder in the Biochemistry Department, is funded through the Horizon Europe EU Marie Curie Network and involves extensive collaboration with leading research groups across Europe and the UK.

The MetaExplore project aims to harness environmental sources to identify and develop new biocatalysts that can contribute to future sustainable processes with improved resource and energy efficiency. The research will center on developing ultrahigh throughput assays to screen metagenomic libraries for new catalysts, with applications in recycling, bioremediation, and green chemistry. Candidate enzymes will be mechanistically investigated, structurally characterized, and improved through directed evolution. The use of microfluidic picoliter droplets enables the experimental interrogation of enzyme libraries with over 10 million members per day, significantly enhancing the potential for successful catalyst discovery.

As part of the MetaExplore network, the successful candidate will benefit from a broad skills training program, including both experimental and computational work, and will have opportunities to collaborate with network partners across Europe. The position is ideal for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research at the interface of biology, chemistry, and environmental science.

Applicants should hold a first or upper second class degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related subject. Experience with molecular and chemical biology techniques is essential, and additional skills in assay development, enzyme kinetics, DNA library generation, structural biology, organic synthesis, high-throughput screening, mechanistic enzymology, bioinformatics, and microfluidic engineering are highly desirable. The application should include a cover letter describing research interests, a detailed CV with exam marks and practical experience, a list of publications, and the names and email addresses of at least two referees familiar with the applicant's research work.

The studentship is fully funded for three years, covering tuition fees and a stipend, with the post available from 1st February 2026 until 31st January 2029. The University of Cambridge actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from all sections of society. All applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

For further information and to apply, visit the University of Cambridge job portal. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Florian Hollfelder at [email protected], and queries regarding the application process can be sent to the Biochemistry HR Team at [email protected].