Shifting climate, shifting threats: understanding the impact of climate change on chytrid disease dynamics in a global salamander biodiversity hotspot

Amphibians are among the most threatened vertebrate groups globally, facing a dual crisis of climate change and emerging infectious diseases. Salamanders, especially those in the biodiversity-rich Appalachian Mountains (USA), are at high risk due to climate-linked habitat loss and chytrid fungal pathogens (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis [Bd] and B. salamandrivorans [Bsal]). Bd is already widespread in Appalachia and has caused significant declines. Salamanders are more susceptible to Bsal but it has not yet been introduced to North America, and its arrival would likely result in catastrophic losses. These threats are closely linked, as temperature influences chytrid pathogen dynamics and host immune responses.

This PhD project, based at Bangor University in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (USA), the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UK) and the University of Aberdeen (UK), will address these challenges by combining cutting-edge approaches in molecular biology, disease ecology and spatial modelling. The successful candidate will explore how climate-driven changes in temperature and habitat influence chytrid disease dynamics, salamander immune function, and microbiome composition. The project will also identify practical, low-cost strategies—such as habitat manipulation—to reduce disease risks.

With opportunities to conduct extensive fieldwork in the Appalachian Mountains, this project offers invaluable experience in one of the world’s key amphibian biodiversity hotspots. You will gain skills in advanced spatial modelling, laboratory techniques, bioinformatics and conservation-focused field research, working alongside leading experts as part of an international collaboration.

Additional Information

The project can be undertaken on either a full time or part time (minimum of 0.5FTE) basis.

A Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) can be applied for. This is support, to cover the study-related costs incurred due to a disability such as a mental health problem, long term illness or other disability. The type of support and amount provided, depends on individual needs, not household income.

Where applicable, funding to cover leave of absence due to ill health is available as is funding to cover maternity/paternity/caring leave.

Eligibility

Applicants are only permitted to apply for one Envision project.

Envision DTP complies with UKRI and NERC guidelines, however this studentship is only open to a home student. To be classed as a home student, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National (meeting residency requirements), or
• Have settled status, or
• Have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirement) or,
• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter

If you do not meet the above criteria, you will be classed as an international student. International students are not eligible to apply for this Envision funded studentship.

Entry requirements

Candidates shall be good honours graduates in Biology or a related area, of a recognised University or comparable University, or persons holding equivalent qualifications who show evidence of exceptional ability, or who have demonstrated their ability in graduate studies.  They shall have good numeracy skills and be eager develop a diverse skillset. The ideal candidate will be passionate and enthusiastic about disease ecology and tackling global biodiversity challenges and excited about contributing to applied conservation science. 

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Our graduates come from a diverse range of backgrounds and ethnicities and Envision strives to ensure that no applicant/student shall experience prejudice at admissions or during their studies, related to their sexuality, disability or any other protected characteristic.

Please note that any applicant who completed an Envision Research Experience Placement (REP) within the past year will be guaranteed an interview for the Envision project that they apply to. 

How to apply

Further information about Envision can be found here and you can apply here.

This final Envision project will commence in October 2025. The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Wednesday 12th March 2025.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the lead supervisor Owen Osborne ([Email Address Removed]) before applying with any informal enquiries or to discuss the project.