PhD Studentship: Development of Novel, Sustainable and Antibiotic-free Antimicrobial Strategies to Control Pathogens with Zoonotic Potential at the Interface of Wild Birds and Humans

Applications are invited for a prestigious three-year fully-funded PhD studentship, commencing 1^stApril or 1^st October 2023. 

With the ongoing natural habitat loss, degradation and progressive urbanisation, there is increased emphasis on the importance that gardens have for wild birds. Supplementary feeding of wild birds is practiced by millions of people across the world and is considered one of the most common forms of wildlife-human interaction. Feeding birds has been shown to promote human health and well-being and may enhance public interest in wildlife welfare and conservation. However, there are risks associated with feeding birds as it can increase pathogen exposure and transmission.

There are several well-recognised microorganisms such as Escherichia coli that affect wild birds, including those visiting gardens, which cause outbreaks of disease and lead to bird suffering and death. The zoonotic potential of some wild bird pathogens (e.g. Salmonella) is also very well known, and the very close human–wildlife proximity at feeding/water stations dramatically increases the risks to public health. 

There is an urgent need to develop novel, sustainable antimicrobial strategies to improve bird health and minimise the spread of disease in wild birds and humans. 

The aim of the project is to develop novel, sustainable and antibiotic-free antimicrobial strategies (e.g. coatings, 3D printed antimicrobial surfaces) that can be applied to various surfaces and structures to protect against pathogens that affect wild birds, including pathogens with zoonotic potential. To achieve this, we will leverage advanced experimental methodologies such as confocal and fluorescence microscopy, antimicrobial susceptibility-testing for biofilms, 3D printing. 

The PhD student will join a multidisciplinary research group and receive excellent training and support, and develop practical skills and an enterprising mind-set. The student will also benefit from a rich collaboration with an industrial partner and a charity organisation involved in the project, which will help enhance the impact of this work. 

For an informal discussion, please email Dr Alexandros Stratakos – alexandros.stratakos@uwe.ac.uk

Funding details

The studentship is available from 1st April 2023 or 1st October 2023 for three years, and includes a tax exempt stipend, which is currently £17,668 per annum. 

Full-time tuition fees will be covered for up to three years for UK residents, EU and Overseas applicants who meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility criteria

Applications are invited from ambitious, self-motivated and enthusiastic candidates. Applicants must have a First-Class or Upper Second-Class BSc in an appropriately related subject area (for example, Microbiology, Molecular Microbiology, Biochemistry) with a solid grounding in laboratory-based research. Although not essential, a Master’s degree in a related discipline, and/or postgraduate laboratory experience is desirable. Experience in 3D printing (e.g. FDM) is also desirable but not essential.

This opportunity is available to UK residents, EU citizens and Overseas applicants.

Applicants whose first language is not English require a recognised English language requirements - International applications | UWE Bristol

The minimum entry requirement is GCSE English at grade C or above or IELTS.

How to apply

Please submit your application online and use the reference number 2223-APR-CHSS11.

Documentation: you will need to upload a cover letter, degree certificates and transcripts and a recognised English language qualification.

References: you will need to provide details of two referees. 

The closing date for applications is 24 February 2023

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