Dipak Ramji

A fully funded PhD position is available to investigate the gut–heart axis in chimpanzees, focusing on how the microbiome contributes to cardiovascular resilience. The project is hosted at Cardiff University, with co-supervision from Swansea University and industry collaboration with Cultech Ltd. The research will involve developing an in vitro fermentation model of the chimpanzee gut, characterising the microbiome using metabarcoding and metabolomics, and exploring microbiome-based interventions. The interdisciplinary supervisory team brings expertise in microbiology, cardiovascular science, conservation, and bioinformatics. The project is part of the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) and is a CASE studentship, which includes a placement with the industry partner. Applicants should have a strong background in biological or biomedical sciences and a keen interest in microbiome research and animal health. The studentship covers tuition fees and a stipend, with applications open until December 3, 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the SWBio DTP website.

This PhD opportunity focuses on exploring the gut–heart axis in chimpanzees to uncover microbial clues to cardiovascular resilience. The interdisciplinary project involves developing an in vitro fermentation model of the chimpanzee gut, characterizing the microbiome using metabarcoding and metabolomics, and investigating microbiome-based interventions. Students will work alongside experts in microbiology, cardiovascular science, conservation, and bioinformatics, with industry collaboration from Cultech Ltd. The host institutions are Cardiff University and Swansea University, with supervisors including Dr Catrin Williams, Dr Pablo Orozco Ter Wengel, Prof Dipak Ramji, and Dr Aimee Drane. The project is part of the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership. Applicants should be passionate about microbiome research and animal health. Funding is provided through the SWBio DTP, but specific financial details are not mentioned. Application is via the SWBio DTP portal under Agriculture & Environmental Biosciences projects.

This PhD opportunity focuses on investigating the gut–heart axis in chimpanzees, aiming to uncover microbial clues to cardiovascular resilience. The project involves developing an in vitro fermentation model of the chimpanzee gut, characterizing the microbiome using metabarcoding and metabolomics, and exploring microbiome-based interventions. Students will work with a multidisciplinary team of experts in microbiology, cardiovascular science, conservation, and bioinformatics, and benefit from industry collaboration with Cultech Ltd. The host institutions are Cardiff University and Swansea University, with supervisors including Dr Catrin Williams, Dr Pablo Orozco Ter Wengel, Prof Dipak Ramji, and Dr Aimee Drane. The project is offered through the SWBio Doctoral Training Partnership, which typically provides fully funded studentships. Applicants should have a strong interest and background in microbiome research, animal health, and related fields. The application process is via the SWBio DTP portal, and candidates are encouraged to review the specific requirements and prepare their materials accordingly.

The Wales Heart Research Institute (WHRI) Cardiovascular Fund at Cardiff University is offering up to three 3-year PhD studentships focused on cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular science. These studentships aim to foster high-quality, collaborative research and provide excellent training opportunities for students. The funding covers home student tuition fees, a stipend at the RCUK level, and up to £30,000 for consumables over three years. Supervisory teams must include members from different schools within Cardiff University, and additional supervisors or collaborators from outside the university are welcome. Applications will be evaluated by a panel, and successful projects will be advertised for student recruitment. Nominated students will be interviewed and ranked for funding. The deadline for applications is 19th December 2025. For more information, applicants should refer to the guidance document and contact the provided email address.