At a Glance
- Tasks: Modernise Campylobacter burden assessment using integrated genomics and data analysis.
- Company: Collaborative research project with UKHSA, FSA, and leading universities.
- Benefits: 100% home fees covered and a tax-free living allowance of £21,805 per year.
- Other info: Join a dynamic PhD cohort with unique training opportunities and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and food safety policy in the UK.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:1 Honours degree in relevant fields; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
Award Summary: 100% of home fees, minimum tax‑free living allowance of £21,805 per year.
Overview: Campylobacter remains the leading bacterial cause of gastrointestinal illness in the UK, but its human burden is badly understood. This PhD addresses this gap, integrating multiple high‑value datasets describing metagenomic and metatranscriptomic sequencing information, clinical and epidemiological data, genomic and surveillance data, and selected UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Food Standards Agency (FSA) and other food‑related datasets. These data provide opportunity to quantify true Campylobacter burden, including infection patterns, coinfection effects, and severity within and across different population groups.
Your role: Collaborating with FSA and UKHSA, you will help modernise how Campylobacter disease burden is assessed, identify drivers of change and possible interventions. You will explore how genomic diversity relates to clinical outcomes, whether machine‑learning approaches can identify emerging clusters, and how integrated genomic–clinical data can support earlier strain detection. The project may also examine vulnerable groups and their behaviours, pathogen‑specific severity profiles, and how improved burden estimates could inform FSA’s response to rising Campylobacter trends and threshold exceedances.
Training: You’ll develop advanced analytical skills e.g. multivariate, machine learning and Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment Microsimulation modelling, generating evidence directly relevant to national food safety policy. You will join a PhD student cohort with NIHR Academy training opportunities. This unique opportunity focusses on the interface of public health, epidemiology and genomics decision‑making, producing insights supporting the UK’s strategic Campylobacter response.
Policy Impact: Part of the NIHR HPRU in Gastrointestinal Infections collaboration between UEA, UKHSA, Quadram and Newcastle University, you will interact with the Public and Community Involvement, Engagement and Participation group, with your research directly informing FSA and UKHSA guidelines and policy, helping protect the public from illness.
Number Of Awards: 1
Start Date: 1st October 2026
Award Duration: 4 years
Application Closing Date: 28 July 2026
Sponsor: UKHSA
Supervisors: Marie McIntyre / Thea Commandeur / Steve Rushton, Newcastle University; Edward Cunningham‑Oakes, University of Liverpool; Roberto Vivancos, UKHSA; Anthony Wilson, FSA
Eligibility Criteria: You must have (or expect) a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject (behavioural science/health psychology/public health/epidemiology/social science/sociology/biology/environmental sciences/microbiology/statistics/veterinary or human medicine). Applicants whose first language is not English require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub‑skills. This studentship is only available to applicants with Home fee status (UK and EU applicants with pre‑settled/settled status, meeting residency criteria).
How To Apply: All applicants should complete the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal. Once registered, select Create a Postgraduate Application (under the “Course Search” to identify your programme of study, search for the “Course Title” using the programme code 8020F (for example). Select “PhD Biology (full‑time)” (for example) as the programme of study. You will then need to provide the following information in “Further Details”: a Personal Statement (mandatory field) – upload a document or write a statement directly into the application form; the studentship code SNES312 in the “Studentship/Partnership Reference” field; when prompted for how you are providing your research proposal – select “Write Proposal”. You should then type in the title of the research project from this advert. You do not need to upload a research proposal.
Contact Details: Dr. K. Marie McIntyre
NIHR PhD Studentship: Modernising Campylobacter burden Assessment Using Integrated Genomics, Sy[...] employer: Newcastle University
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of immuno-oncology research. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful projects in a supportive team atmosphere. Located in a vibrant city, the university provides a unique chance to engage with cutting-edge research and make meaningful contributions to healthcare advancements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NIHR PhD Studentship: Modernising Campylobacter burden Assessment Using Integrated Genomics, Sy[...]
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab
Look for local labs or research facilities that offer trainee positions. Volunteering for a few hours can not only boost your CV but also help you make connections that will come in handy when applying for roles at places like Newcastle University.
✨Join Biology-Specific Networks
Check out biology-related meetups or online communities. Join forums where professionals discuss current research trends and techniques—these can be goldmines for connections and job leads tailored to your interests.
✨Gain Practical Experience
Don’t underestimate the power of internships or placements, even if they’re unpaid. Gaining hands-on experience in biology can set you apart when applying for trainee positions. Apply through our website to make sure you’re first in line for opportunities.
✨Attend Career Fairs
Keep an eye out for university career fairs that focus on life sciences. These events are perfect for meeting potential employers in a relaxed setting and could lead to exciting trainee roles, so come prepared to chat about what you can bring to the table at Newcastle University.
We think you need these skills to ace NIHR PhD Studentship: Modernising Campylobacter burden Assessment Using Integrated Genomics, Sy[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your passion for biology!:When you're crafting your CV and cover letter, don't shy away from sharing your genuine enthusiasm for biology. Include any relevant projects, coursework, or experiences that illustrate your love for the field—especially if you’ve dabbled in lab work or field studies. This is particularly important for a trainee role; we value eagerness to learn and grow!
Highlight your teamwork skills:In biology, collaboration can be key, especially in research settings. Make sure to spotlight any experience you have working in groups, whether that’s through academic projects, lab teams, or volunteering. Showing us that you’re a great team player will really help in your application.
Tailor your application documents:Make your CV and cover letter specific to the role at Newcastle University. Highlight your relevant coursework and skills, and align them with what they’re looking for in a trainee. If you have specific interests in certain biological fields, give them a nod! It's all about making your application feel uniquely yours and lined up with what we're after.
Bring your curiosity to the forefront:As a trainee, demonstrating curiosity and a desire to learn is vital. Use your cover letter to express what specifically excites you about this role at Newcastle University and how you see it fitting into your career path. This will show us that you're driven and ready to dive into the biological world with enthusiasm.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle University
✨Brush Up on Your Core Biology Knowledge
We should delve into the fundamental concepts of biology. Make sure you’re comfortable discussing key areas such as genetics, microbiology, and ecology, as interviewers might throw some technical questions your way to gauge your understanding. Knowing your stuff will show your passion and preparedness!
✨Show Us Your Research Skills
Since this is a trainee role, any real-world experience you have in conducting experiments or engaging in fieldwork could be a big plus. Prepare to talk about any projects or coursework, maybe even bring along a portfolio showcasing relevant lab work you’ve done. Being able to demonstrate your practical skills will help set you apart!
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, they’ll likely look for your motivation and potential. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the biology field and any specific areas you’re eager to explore further. This mindset not only shows enthusiasm but also a commitment to growth!
✨Anticipate Collaborative Scenarios
Biology often involves teamwork, especially in research settings. You might face behavioural interview questions about working in a team or handling conflict. Think of examples from your studies or group projects where you successfully collaborated or resolved issues. This will demonstrate your ability to work harmoniously with others!
