University of East Anglia
1 week ago
PhD Studentship: Whole genome sequencing from mosquito blood meals University of East Anglia in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Molecular Biology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of East Anglia
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About this position
PhD Studentship at the University of East Anglia on whole genome sequencing from mosquito blood meals. This project sits within the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) and is designed to push environmental DNA research beyond species detection into the recovery of full animal genomes from mosquito blood meals.
Mosquitoes act as tiny samplers of vertebrate blood, and their blood meals can contain DNA from both animals and associated pathogens. Building on hundreds of collected blood meals with known species presences, the project will investigate how to extract and sequence more informative genomic data from these samples. The research will focus on improving DNA extraction and Illumina sequencing protocols, characterising degradation and damage patterns in blood meal DNA, and exploring epigenetic information and Nanopore sequencing approaches. A third major aim is to use recovered genomes to study genetic diversity, population structure, relatedness, and pathogen transmission dynamics in animals.
The student will receive broad training across molecular biology, genomics technologies, bioinformatics, metagenomics, and population genetics. The project offers a strong mix of wet-lab and computational work and is well suited to applicants interested in genomics, evolution, DNA analysis, and applied molecular ecology. The student will also participate in journal clubs, departmental seminars, conference presentations, and professional development activities through the doctoral training programme.
Funding is fully supported through a 4-year PhD studentship. The award includes tuition fees paid directly to the university, an annual stipend for living costs, and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000 per year. The stipend is listed at £21,805 for 2026/27. This is a funded PhD entry for October 2027.
Eligibility highlights include a minimum of a UK-equivalent 2:1 Bachelors (Honours) degree and an English language level equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component. The ideal candidate will have a background in biology, such as genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, evolutionary biology, or biotechnology, alongside enthusiasm for lab-based and data-driven genomics research.
Applications are submitted via the UEA postgraduate research application portal. Applicants must use the NRPDTP bespoke Personal and Research statement templates. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on 2, 3, and 4 February 2027.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should have at least UK equivalent of a Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree. A background in biology is preferred, for example genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, evolutionary biology, or biotechnology. Strong interest in molecular biology lab work, genomics, evolution, and data analysis is expected. English language requirement for the Faculty of Science is IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each category.
How to apply
Apply through the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal. Use the bespoke NRPDTP Personal and Research statement templates for the relevant sections of the application. Submit before the deadline and, if shortlisted, attend interview on 2–4 February 2027.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.