The ecology of antimicrobial resistance in wildlife populations

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to human and animal health. Most research to date has focused on human clinical, livestock or veterinary settings. However, the natural environment and wildlife populations represent a large and important reservoir of both resistant organisms and mobile genetic elements: that can mobilise and transfer AMR genes. The distribution of resistance genes in wildlife populations is likely to be driven by exposure to AMR bacteria and environmental selection by anthropogenic agents. Such agents may include antimicrobials, biocides and other co-selective agents, such as heavy metals. Data are currently scarce, limiting our ability to predict and control the spread of AMR from wildlife into human and livestock populations.

This studentship will apply population genomics to a unique collection of Escherichia coli isolated from wild rodent species, inhabiting a range of different habitats, with differing exposures to human and animal populations, and anthropogenic selective agents. The anthropogenic drivers for the distribution of resistance and mobile genetic elements encoding multi-drug resistance will also be investigated.

The Institute of Infection & Global Health is fully committed to promoting gender equality in all activities. In recruitment we emphasise the supportive nature of the working environment and the flexible family support that the University provides. The Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Athena SWAN principles are embedded in its activities and strategic initiatives.

Applications (CV, letter of application, 2 referees) by email to [Email Address Removed], deadline: January 9th 2018. Interviews: 14th-16th February 2018. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed for only one project from the ACCE partnership.