This fully funded PhD project at Teesside University, in partnership with the Yorkshire Bioscience Doctoral Training Partnership (YBDTP) and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), investigates the infection mechanisms of crustacean nudiviruses—double-stranded DNA viruses that cause significant economic and environmental damage in aquaculture and wild crustacean populations. The project aims to unravel how these viruses transmit and enter host cells, with a focus on developing bioinformatic and molecular insights into viral entry systems.

The successful candidate will explore nudivirus diversity, sequence genomes of novel species, and develop high-quality host transcriptome data to identify membrane proteins in the crustacean hepatopancreas, the primary target tissue for these viruses. The research will involve advanced techniques in viral genome assembly, annotation, phylogenetics, nucleotide and protein isolation, protein synthesis, and protein interaction assays. A transcriptomic approach will be used to study the viral infection system in a crustacean model, with the goal of identifying protein targets for antiviral drug development to benefit the aquaculture industry.

This CASE studentship offers interdisciplinary training in biological, biotechnology, and biochemical research, as well as professional skills for both academic and non-academic careers. The YBDTP brings together leading bioscience research institutions across Yorkshire and Teesside, providing a collaborative and supportive doctoral training environment. The project is open to UK and international students, with a competitive selection process for a limited number of fully funded studentships.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant biological, chemical, physical science, or mathematics discipline. International applicants must meet Teesside University's entry and English language requirements. The studentship covers a tax-free annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26), research costs, and UK-rate tuition fees. International students are responsible for visa, NHS surcharge, and travel costs.

To apply, submit an Expression of Interest form for October 2026 recruitment via the project link. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in February 2025. For further information, visit the YBDTP website or contact [email protected].

References supporting the project include recent publications on nudivirus diversity, infection patterns, and evolutionary taxonomy in leading journals.