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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 cutting-edge 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 - 30000 £ 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 Microbial Metabolism in the Entero-Salivary Nitrate Pathway
The oral microbiome plays a central role in the nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway, linking dietary nitrate metabolism to oral ecology and systemic physiology. However, in polymicrobial biofilms nitrate-derived intermediates may be diverted into alternative nitrogen pathways depending on microbial interactions and environmental context. The mechanisms governing this metabolic branching remain poorly understood. 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 £3,000 annual industry uplift, cross-institutional training, and specialist isotope training at the University of Glasgow.
Applicants should have a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, chemistry, or related disciplines.
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 £3,000 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 in Slough 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 in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty in your field. They can provide insights about the application process and might even give you a heads-up on opportunities before they’re 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 boost your 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 in Slough
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 submit your application via the links provided! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Mary University of London
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the PhD projects. Familiarise yourself with the oral microbiome, nitrate metabolism, and the links between periodontal microbes and cognitive decline. This shows your genuine interest and helps you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your background in microbiology, molecular biology, or any relevant field. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you’ve used, like RNA-seq or multi-omics approaches. This will demonstrate that you have the practical skills needed for the projects.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the projects, training opportunities, and the research environment. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your Pitch
Rehearse a brief introduction about yourself, focusing on your academic journey and why you’re passionate about these research areas. A confident and clear pitch can set a positive tone for the rest of the interview.