PhD Studentship: Decoding the molecular switches that control fungal growth and infection

Primary Supervisor - Dr Stefan Bidula 

Fungal infections are responsible for over 1.5 million deaths each year, cause substantial agricultural losses, and are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to rising antifungal resistance. To develop the next generation of antifungal therapies, we need a better understanding of the fundamental biological processes that enable fungi to grow and cause disease.

This PhD project will investigate the role of unusual DNA and RNA structures known as G-quadruplexes (G4s) in regulating the metabolic changes that occur when fungal spores germinate. Germination is a critical stage in the fungal life cycle, allowing dormant spores to develop into invasive hyphae capable of causing infection and forming drug-resistant biofilms. Using the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus as a model, the project will test the hypothesis that G4s act as molecular switches controlling the metabolic pathways required for successful germination.

The successful candidate will receive multidisciplinary training in molecular microbiology, fungal genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, metabolomics, microscopy and structural biology. They will generate genome-wide maps of G4 formation, engineer targeted mutants, investigate metabolic changes using NMR spectroscopy, and study how these processes influence fungal cell-wall remodelling and antifungal susceptibility.

This project offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment alongside experts in fungal biology, nucleic acid biology and NMR spectroscopy. The student will be encouraged to present their work at national and international conferences, publish in leading journals, engage in public outreach activities and develop a broad range of transferable research skills.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences or a related discipline. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive research environment where everyone can thrive.

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2027 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. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study.

Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th February 2027.

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

To maximise accessibility and attract students from underrepresented groups to our programme we have introduced bespoke templates for applicant Personal and Research statements which will enable every applicant to fully represent themselves through providing suitable examples and evidence. These forms are on the NRPDTP website and must be used for these sections of the application form.

Start date

1 October 2027

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2026/27 stipend rate: £21,805, and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000 pa for each year of the studentship.

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