PhD Studentship: Understanding the Microbiome and Phageome in Chronic Lung Infections for the Development of Phage Therapy 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 fully-funded PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the microbiome and phageome in chronic lung infections, with the goal of advancing personalised phage therapy. Bronchiectasis, a chronic respiratory disease, is the central focus, particularly the recurrent infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that worsen patient outcomes. The project aims to deepen understanding of the bacterial and phage communities present in bronchiectasis sputum, enabling more effective and tailored phage therapy approaches.

The research is primarily computational, involving bioinformatics analyses to explore the microbiome and phageome, complemented by laboratory work such as DNA extractions and microbial isolations. The studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and based at the Quadram Institute Bioscience, a leading centre for microbiome research, in collaboration with the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. The successful candidate will join the research group of Dr Evelien Adriaenssens, an expert in viromes and microbiome, with additional support from Prof Eleanor Mishra, a respiratory consultant and associate clinical professor.

The Quadram Institute offers a vibrant research environment at the interface of fundamental and translational science, with extensive training opportunities, laboratory and computational support, and funding for conference attendance. The project is designed to prepare the student for a wide range of scientific careers, providing both practical laboratory experience and advanced computational skills.

Eligibility requirements include a minimum of an Upper Second-Class Honours degree (2:1) in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in either microbiology, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, and a willingness to learn complementary skills. Proficiency in bioinformatics, including command-line usage, is essential. Applicants must also meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 6 in each category).

The studentship covers full tuition fees, an annual stipend for living expenses (£20,780 for 2025/26), and a Research Training Support Grant for each year of study. The position is full-time, starting on 1 October 2026. For further details on eligibility and application procedures, visit the application portal and project information pages provided below.

Application deadline: 6 January 2026.

Links:
UEA Postgraduate Research Application Portal
Project Information and Eligibility