PhD Position in Bacterial Stress Response and Microbiology at Illinois State University Illinois State University in United States

PhD position available in the Dahl Lab at Illinois State University in the field of bacterial stress response. The project focuses on how Gram-negative bacterial pathogens survive host immune defenses, especially oxidative stress generated by the innate immune system or by antibiotics. This is a strong fit for students interested in microbiology, biochemistry, and host-pathogen interactions.

The position is in the School of Biological Sciences and is supervised by Jan-Ulrik Dahl, Associate Professor of Microbiology and Dr. Fred Gletten Endowed Chair of Biological Sciences. The lab emphasizes an inquiry-driven, collaborative environment and aims to help graduate researchers publish impactful science and build scientific careers.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold an M.S. degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a closely related biological field. The post also looks for strong scientific curiosity, self-motivation, a strong work ethic, and interest in rigorous collaborative research. Experience with membrane protein purification is a plus but not required.

The post says the PhD position starts in January 2027. Interested candidates should email the supervisor directly with a CV and a cover letter describing research experience and motivation. A lab page is provided for more information.