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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on oral microbiomes and their impact on health.
- Company: Join a leading research institution with a focus on innovative science.
- Benefits: Receive a tax-free stipend, industry uplift, and interdisciplinary training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in understanding health through microbiome research.
- Qualifications: Strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields required.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth and collaboration across disciplines.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 ÂŁ per year.
We are currently recruiting 2 PhD students for October 2026 entry, as part of a BBSRC-funded Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award. Please get in touch if interested and apply via the links below. Note: Due to funding requirements, these positions are open to candidates eligible for UK Home fees only.
PhD Project 1: Oral Microbiome's role in nitric oxide production
Nitric oxide is critical for cardiovascular health, and its production depends on oral bacteria converting dietary nitrate. But in real biofilms, this pathway is far from straightforward. Microbes don’t just “reduce nitrate”, in real communities, they compete, cooperate, and reroute nitrate through alternative pathways depending on their environment. This project will uncover the rules governing that behaviour. This project will combine ex vivo oral biofilm models, systematic microbial co-culture screens, stable isotope tracing and multi-omics approaches (metagenomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics) to identify how microbial interactions and environmental factors such as oxygen, pH and nutrient availability influence nitrate metabolism.
The student will receive interdisciplinary training in:
- Oral biofilm modelling
- Anaerobic microbiology
- Stable isotope probing and metabolic flux analysis
- Multi-omics data integration and systems biology
Students benefit from a 4-year tax-free London-weighted UKRI stipend plus ÂŁ3,000 annual industry uplift, cross-institutional training, and specialist isotope training at the University of Glasgow.
PhD Project 2: Oral–Systemic Links: Periodontal Microbes and the Blood–Brain Barrier
Large population studies link periodontitis with cognitive decline and dementia, but the underlying biological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that metabolites produced by periodontal pathogens, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, may directly affect vascular and neurological function. This interdisciplinary project will combine microbial–endothelial co-culture models, transcriptomics, molecular and cellular assays, and human microbiome and metabolomic data integration to identify pathways through which oral microbial metabolites influence BBB function.
The student will:
- Investigate how microbial metabolites affect endothelial signalling and BBB integrity
- Apply RNA-seq, immunohistochemistry and targeted pathway inhibition approaches
- Integrate clinical microbiome, metabolomic and immune datasets
- Test functional effects of human serum on BBB models
The studentship provides a 4-year tax-free London-weighted UKRI stipend plus ÂŁ3,000 annual industry uplift, interdisciplinary training and opportunities to work at the interface of microbiology, neuroscience, vascular biology and clinical research.
Post Graduate Researcher / PhD Student employer: Queen Mary University of London
Contact Detail:
Queen Mary University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post Graduate Researcher / PhD Student
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty in your field. They can provide insider info about the application process and might even give you a heads-up on opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and discussing your research interests. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential supervisors, make sure to express why you're excited about their research. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Post Graduate Researcher / PhD Student
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the research area shine through. We want to see why you're excited about the projects and how your background aligns with our goals.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the PhD projects. We’re looking for candidates with a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain why you’re interested in the specific project and how you can contribute. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good narrative!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply via the links provided in the job description! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Mary University of London
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the specifics of the PhD projects you're applying for. Familiarise yourself with the methodologies mentioned, like multi-omics approaches and microbial co-culture screens. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
Highlight any relevant experience you have in microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields. Be prepared to discuss specific projects or coursework that align with the research focus. This will help demonstrate your capability and readiness for the challenges of the PhD programme.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the projects, the team, and the training opportunities. This shows that you’re not just interested in getting the position, but that you’re also keen on how you can contribute and grow within the research environment.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You might be asked to present your previous work or explain complex concepts. Practising how to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently can make a big difference. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and get comfortable with potential questions.