Andrew Pitt
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8 months ago
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PhD Studentship - Understanding the Rules of Life in Microbiomes Using Stable Isotope Labelling The University of Manchester in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Expired
Country
United Kingdom
University
The University of Manchester
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About this position
This 3.5-year PhD studentship at The University of Manchester offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the fundamental rules of life in microbiomes using advanced stable isotope labelling techniques. Microbial communities in geothermal springs are capable of efficient CO2-driven carbon cycling, presenting promising systems for CO2 capture and bioconversion that could surpass current technologies. These communities are not only resistant to problematic sulfur and nitrogen compounds but also possess relatively low complexity, making them ideal for studying the division of labour and resource sharing among community members.
The project will focus on developing methods for compound-specific, multi-isotope metabolite analysis using state-of-the-art mass spectrometers and sophisticated data analysis pipelines. This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of microbiome adaptability and resilience, and will enable engineering of these systems for environmental and biotechnological applications. The studentship is part of a £5M BBSRC sLoLa initiative, providing numerous opportunities for interdisciplinary training and collaboration within a multi-disciplinary team.
Funding includes a generous annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26, subject to annual uplift), with tuition fees fully covered. The stipend is expected to increase each year. The position is open to both UK and overseas students, with a start date in October 2026. Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline. Relevant experience and a clear motivation for the project should be included in the application.
To apply, candidates should submit their application online at https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425 and contact the main supervisor, Prof Andrew Pitt, at [email protected], providing details of their academic background, current level of study, relevant experience, and a paragraph outlining their motivation for pursuing this PhD. Early application is advised as the advert may be removed before the official deadline of 18 May 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. Relevant experience and motivation to study this PhD project should be included in the application. No specific language test or GPA requirements are mentioned.
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Professors
Professor at Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Biochemistry
Carbon Cycling
Co2 Capture
Environmental Science
Biology
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.