Robert Habgood

Fully funded PhD opportunity in the University of Bath / University of Bristol (Bristol Vet School) partnership, starting in September 2027 through the SWBio DTP Hub Doctoral Training Partnership . The project is titled Using engineering biology to modulate toxin-antitoxin dynamics and the stability of multidrug resistance in important foodborne pathogens (Project 3659). This studentship sits at the intersection of engineering biology , synthetic biology , molecular biology , microbiology , and quantitative modelling . The research focuses on plasmid addiction and toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems as a way to understand and potentially exploit the stability of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) plasmids in foodborne pathogens. The aim is to investigate whether precise manipulation of toxin and antitoxin levels can destabilise plasmids that contribute to multidrug resistance, virulence, and persistence. Supervision is provided by Robert Habgood , Tristan Cogan , Sion C Bayliss , and Zam Iqbal . The studentship is fully funded for 4 years under a competitive SWBio DTP scheme. The post explicitly notes that it is a competition-funded opportunity, so applicants should check the eligibility rules and selection process carefully before applying. The team is particularly interested in candidates with a strong interest and some prior experience in one or more of the following: engineering/synthetic biology , molecular biology , microbiology , and quantitative modelling . The application deadline is midday (GMT) on Wednesday 2 December 2026 . To apply, review the SWBio competition guidance and project information at the linked pages, then submit your application through the SWBio portal before the deadline.