Publisher
source

University of Calgary

MSc or PhD Position in Phage-Based Diagnostics for Johne’s Disease at University of Calgary University of Calgary in Canada

Degree Level

Master's, PhD

Field of study

Molecular Biology

Funding

Competitive graduate funding is offered, along with comprehensive research training and professional development.

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Country

Canada

University

University of Calgary

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Keywords

Molecular Biology
Microbiology
Biomedical Engineering
Biology
Veterinary Science
Medical Science
Bacterial Genetics
Genome Engineering

About this position

Graduate student opportunity at the University of Calgary (UCVM), in the De Buck Laboratory – Veterinary Microbiology, for an MSc or PhD project focused on innovative phage-based diagnostics for Johne’s disease.

The project aims to develop a next-generation, phage-based, PCR-free diagnostic platform using mycobacteriophages and genetic engineering for rapid, sensitive, on-farm pen-side detection of Johne’s disease in cattle and small ruminants. This is a strong fit for students interested in microbiology, molecular biology, veterinary science, bacterial genetics, and diagnostics development.

Applicants should have a BSc for the MSc route or an MSc for the PhD route in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Veterinary Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related discipline. The post emphasizes strong hands-on lab skills, including cloning, PCR-based methods, and bacterial genetics, plus solid microbiology experience, ideally with bacterial pathogens. Experience with mycobacteria, bacteriophages, CRISPR, or genetic engineering is desirable.

The position offers competitive graduate funding, comprehensive research training, professional development, and a vibrant research community at UCVM. Start date is September 2026 or earlier. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.

To apply, send a cover letter, CV, and 2–3 references to Dr. Jeroen De Buck at [email protected].

Funding details

Competitive graduate funding is offered, along with comprehensive research training and professional development.

What's required

Applicants need a BSc for the MSc track or an MSc for the PhD track in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Veterinary Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field. Strong hands-on molecular biology skills are required, including cloning, PCR-based methods, and bacterial genetics. Solid microbiology skills, ideally with bacterial pathogens, are expected, along with the ability to work independently and in teams. Experience with mycobacteria, bacteriophages, genetic engineering, or CRISPR is desirable, as is interest in diagnostics development, translational research, and field validation with producers.

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