PhD Studentship 2025 – Discovery of Antimicrobial Compounds for Plant Disease Suppression – University of Birmingham

by
University of Birmingham

Position: PhD Studentship
Location: University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
Funding: Fully funded by MIBTP (Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership)
Duration: Full-Time
Application Deadline: 16th January 2025

About the PhD Studentship:
The University of Birmingham invites applications for a PhD Studentship focused on the discovery of antimicrobial compounds associated with disease suppression in plants. The project addresses challenges related to Acute Oak Decline (AOD), a complex disease threatening native oak trees in Britain. This exciting research opportunity offers training in microbiology, mass spectrometry, and plant health.

Project Focus:
This PhD project aims to develop treatments for Acute Oak Decline (AOD) by identifying and characterizing antimicrobial compounds produced by plant-associated microbiota. Using cutting-edge methods in microbiology and mass spectrometry, the project will investigate microbial interactions, compound activity, and disease suppression.

Research Objectives:

  1. Bacterial Co-culture Assays: Analyze antimicrobial activities of oak-associated microbiota against pathogens.
  2. Mass Spectrometry Identification: Characterize compounds responsible for pathogen suppression.
  3. Validation Studies: Test and validate antimicrobial activity of identified compounds.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Education: First or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines.
  • Skills:
    • Experience with molecular biology techniques, microbial assays, or mass spectrometry.
    • Strong analytical and research abilities.
    • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Applicants: Open to UK, EU, and International students.

Funding Details:

  • Sponsor: Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP).
  • Funding Includes:
    • Tuition Fees.
    • Stipend (tax-free) as per MIBTP guidelines.
    • Research training and access to advanced facilities.

For more funding details, visit: MIBTP Funding Information

Why Choose the University of Birmingham?

  • Ranked among the Top 100 global universities (QS World Rankings, 2024).
  • Access to state-of-the-art laboratories in the School of Biosciences.
  • Part of Institute of Microbiology and Infection (IMI) and Birmingham Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR).
  • Collaboration with leading experts and a vibrant research environment.

How to Apply:

  1. Visit the University of Birmingham PhD Application Portal: Apply Here
  2. Submit the required documents, including:
    • CV and academic transcripts.
    • Research proposal aligned with the project focus.
    • Two academic references.
  3. Submit your application before 16th January 2025.

For Queries:

Important Dates:

  • Application Closing Date: 16th January 2025
  • Start Date: September 2025

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