PhD Studentship: Carrying a Toxic Burden: The Continuing Spread of “Shiga Toxin stx2a”-harbouring Phage in E. Coli

Shiga-toxin encoding E. coli (STEC) are of great public health concern due to the risk of foodborne gastroenteritis progressing to the clinically severe haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). Toxin subtype stx2a is linked to a higher chance of this progression and sequence-based surveillance has indicated increasing acquisition of this subtype across genetically diverse E. coli. In this project, we will explore the influence of multiple copies of the stx2a toxin gene, investigate the diversity of the prophage that carry the toxin and identify additional genetic factors contributing to HUS. To do this, we will combine bacterial and phage genomics with clinical data, perform qPCR expression assays and assess prophage mobilisation potential in the laboratory.

This will help inform public health surveillance and provide an evidence base to predict future emergence of novel pathogenic types.

The supervisory team consists of leading experts Dr Gemma Langridge, microbiology and E. coli genomics, Dr Evelien Adriaenssens, phage biology, and Dr Claire Jenkins, UK Health Security Agency lead for E. coli. Together they will provide world class training and support to the student in developing cutting edge skills in both laboratory (sequencing, qPCR, phage biology) and computational/analytical areas (bacterial and phage phylogenomics, genome-wide associations).

During the PhD programme the student will spend time at UKHSA, gaining experience of working between an academic and public health institution in a multidisciplinary team to translate research into practical methodologies impacting public health outcomes.

Located on the Norwich Research Park, the Quadram Institute is a new, state of the art building with outstanding facilities. The student will join a diverse community of microbiologists and informaticians, alongside a cohort of graduate researchers with exceptional training opportunities.

Informal enquiries can be sent to gemma.langridge@quadram.ac.uk

For information on eligibility and how to apply: http://www.uea.ac.uk/phd/mmbdtp

Entry requirements

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

Mode of study: Full-time

Start date: 1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year fully-funded studentship including direct payment of tuition fees to the University, stipend for living expenses (2025/26 rate: £20,780) and a Research Training Support Grant for each year of the studentship.

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