PhD Studentship: Carrying a Toxic Burden – The Spread of Shiga Toxin stx2a-harbouring Phage in E. Coli University of East Anglia in United Kingdom

[4-year fully-funded studentship including direct payment of tuition fees, annual stipend for living expenses (£20,780 for 2025/26), and a Research Training Support Grant each year.] This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia investigates the ongoing spread of Shiga toxin stx2a-harbouring phage in E. coli, a major public health concern due to its association with severe foodborne illness and haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). The project will explore the impact of multiple stx2a gene copies, prophage diversity, and additional genetic factors contributing to HUS. Research will integrate bacterial and phage genomics, clinical data analysis, qPCR expression assays, and laboratory assessment of prophage mobilisation. The aim is to inform public health surveillance and predict the emergence of novel pathogenic E. coli types.

The student will receive training from Dr Gemma Langridge (microbiology and E. coli genomics), Dr Evelien Adriaenssens (phage biology), and Dr Claire Jenkins (UK Health Security Agency lead for E. coli), gaining expertise in both laboratory and computational methods, including sequencing, qPCR, phage biology, phylogenomics, and genome-wide association studies. The programme includes a placement at the UK Health Security Agency, providing experience in translating research into practical public health methodologies. The student will be based at the Quadram Institute, a state-of-the-art facility on the Norwich Research Park, joining a vibrant community of microbiologists and informaticians. The studentship is fully funded for four years, covering tuition fees, a living stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), and a Research Training Support Grant.

Applicants should have at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 and meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). The programme starts on 1 October 2026. For application details, visit the UEA postgraduate research portal or contact Dr Gemma Langridge for informal enquiries.