Barbara Tschirren

The Wild Microbiome Lab at the University of Exeter, led by Xav Harrison, is offering several fully funded PhD opportunities for 2026 in wildlife disease ecology. The lab investigates how microbes influence animal health, focusing on the interactions between host microbiomes and pathogens in wildlife, including amphibians and mammals. Projects include studying microbiome-pathogen relationships in European badgers, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dynamics in wild baboons and gamebirds, and upcoming research on AMR in migratory birds. These projects involve interdisciplinary collaboration, fieldwork in locations such as South Africa, Iceland, and the UK, and advanced molecular and statistical techniques. Applicants should have strong fieldwork and quantitative skills, experience with molecular ecology, and an interest in wildlife disease and One Health frameworks. All positions are fully funded by the BBSRC SWBIO DTP, covering tuition and stipend. The application deadline is December 3, 2024. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the lead supervisor before applying and to review project details on the lab website.