WR DTP fully-funded project: Genetic and molecular dissection of the effect of viruses on bacterial fitness and antibiotic resistance evolution.

The rapid spread of antibiotic resistance between bacteria is one of the greatest threats to human health and, if left unchecked, deaths per year are projected to rise substantially. The primary mechanisms for the rapid spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence genes are known collectively as Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT). While AMR is commonly driven by HGT in natural environments, the specific role of viruses and domesticated viruses is poorly understood. This project will unravel the molecular and genetic details of various HGT mechanisms, with a particular focus on viral vectors – which are important drivers of genome plasticity and phenotypic conversion in the natural environment. We will also explore the role HGT in bacterial evolution, adaptation, fitness and the mobilization of antibiotic resistance genes under controlled environmentally realistic conditions. 

This project will be multidisciplinary, combining experimental evolution, microbial genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology. In particular, we will identify the genes and pathways that provide a competitive advantage for model bacterial species and dissect the benefits they provide to their host (e.g. antibiotic resistance). You will use techniques including mutagenesis, cloning, fluorescence imaging, flow cytometry, next generation sequencing, competition assays and bioinformatics. The Department of Biology at York offers opportunities for advanced training in use of cutting-edge technologies and data analysis in R. You will also be offered varied graduate skills training together with valuable academic experience such as attendance at conferences and seminar series plus opportunities to participate in outreach activities.

The WR DTP and the University of York are committed to recruiting future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and we have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.

Entry Requirements: Students with, or expecting to gain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. The interdisciplinary nature of this programme means that we welcome applications from students with backgrounds in any biological, chemical, and/or physical science, or students with mathematical backgrounds who are interested in using their skills in addressing biological questions. 

Programme: PhD in Mechanistic Biology (4 years)

Start Date: 1st October 2022 (the student will be affiliated with the Department of Biology)

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in mid February 2022