PhD Studentship - Evolutionary and Ecological Impact of the Western Lifestyle on the Gut Microbiome

Primary supervisor - Dr Falk Hildebrand

The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem shaped by nutrition, immunity, but also by shared microbes from our families. While bacterial genomes are assumed to be relatively genetically stable, we now know that its bacterial members can adapt within days. Our research shows that Western and non-Western populations differ greatly in their gut bacterial composition, bacterial sharing, diversity, and evolutionary patterns—differences that may influence disease risk and microbiome resilience [doi:10.1016/j.chom.2023.05.024].

This PhD will explore how the Western lifestyle affects the ecological and genetic health of gut bacteria[doi:10.1016/j.chom.2021.05.008]. Specifically we will

- Identify patterns that distinguish Western from non-Western microbiomes

- Track how bacteria adapt over time and across environments

- Explore the metabolic niches bacteria occupy and how these vary between regions

During this 4-year DTP programme advanced training in evolutionary theory, population genetic and high-resolution metagenomics will be provided. Prior exposure to statistics and programming languages is expected, specialized skills will be developed through mentorship and collaborations. As part of a broad and interdisciplinary education, visiting international conferences/training courses, polish collaborators, and a 3-month industrial placement are planned.

Prof Falk Hildebrand will supervise the project together with Drs Wilfried Haerty, Katarzyna Sidorczuk and Anthony Duncan. The hosting group (https://www.falk.science) uses metagenomics to research the diversity, interactions, and microbial evolution, developing bespoke bioinformatic solutions. We are located at the Quadram/Earlham Institute in the Norwich Research Park, UK. Norwich hosts a vibrant and active research community, large student community and multiple startups. It is a mid-sized historical, medieval city with an active pub and coffee scene, situated at the Norfolk coast.

The project offers scope to develop your own research questions and aims for at least two high-impact publications. Join us to uncover how lifestyle, environment, and evolution shape one of the most important ecosystems in human health.

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2026 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 3,4 or 5 February 2026.

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/.

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

Mode of study

Full time

Start date

1 October 2026

Funding Information:

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD CASE studentship with Inspiralis Limited. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2025/6 stipend rate: £20,780), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.

Closing Date: 02/12/2026

Please complete your application via the ‘Apply’ button above.

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