David Fitzpatrick

PhD opportunity in antifungal resistance at Maynooth University A fully funded Faculty of Science and Engineering Doctoral Scholarship is available in the Department of Biology at Maynooth University , Ireland, starting in September/October 2026 . The project is titled “Decoding Antifungal Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus: Genetic Drivers and Therapeutic Solutions.” This PhD will investigate the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying antifungal resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus , a major pathogen responsible for invasive aspergillosis. The research will explore how resistant strains evolve and will assess plant-derived antimicrobial compounds as potential alternative or adjunct antifungal therapies. The work is based in the Genome Evolution Laboratory under the supervision of Professor David Fitzpatrick . Research methods and training will include comparative genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, fungal culture, DNA/RNA extraction, antimicrobial susceptibility assays, sample preparation for proteomic analyses, and use of bioinformatic pipelines and high-performance computing resources. The post is especially relevant to students interested in microbiology, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and medically relevant fungal research. Funding: The scholarship is fully funded for up to four years and includes a €25,000 annual tax-free stipend plus university fees covered . Eligibility: Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first-class or upper second-class (2.1) honours degree, or a master’s degree, in biology, biomedical sciences, microbiology, genetics, biotechnology, or a related discipline. Non-native English speakers must meet the programme-specific English language requirements. Candidates must be available to start in October 2026 and be resident in Ireland for full-time study. Application deadline: 5pm, 5 June 2026 . Applications must be submitted as a single PDF including a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, publication/conference/prior research details if applicable, and contact details for two academic referees. Send applications directly to [email protected] with Aspergillus/PhD/2026 in the subject line. The post also notes that eligible candidates will be considered for registration through the university application process.

Maynooth University is advertising a PhD Scholarship in the Department of Biology for a project titled Decoding Antifungal Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus: Genetic Drivers and Therapeutic Solutions . The project is based in the Genome Evolution Laboratory under the supervision of Prof. David Fitzpatrick . The lab has an established reputation in fungal comparative genomics , transcriptomics , and proteomics . The research will investigate the genetic drivers of antifungal resistance, mechanisms underlying azole resistance, and potential therapeutic solutions for invasive aspergillosis. This opportunity is especially relevant for applicants interested in microbiology , molecular biology , genetics , biotechnology , and laboratory-based research. The scholarship is intended for a suitably qualified applicant who can commence in October 2026 . Eligibility includes a first-class or upper second-class honours degree (2.1) or a master’s degree in biology, biomedical sciences, microbiology, genetics, biotechnology, or a related discipline. Non-native English speakers must provide evidence of English proficiency according to Maynooth University requirements. To apply, candidates must submit a single PDF with a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, relevant publications/presentations or research experience, and contact details for two referees. Applications are made via the university portal (MU Apply) and also emailed directly to [email protected] with the subject line Aspergillus/PhD/2026 . The closing date is 5 June 2026 at 5pm .