The University of Sheffield is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity for researchers interested in bacteriophage biology, molecular microbiology, genomics and antimicrobial resistance.
Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Their remarkable diversity and ability to reveal previously unknown biological processes make them promising candidates for developing alternative antibacterial therapies and addressing the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
This project focuses on Jumbophages, a group of unusually large bacteriophages that use specialised mechanisms to take over bacterial host cells. Some Jumbophages can establish specialised internal structures within infected bacteria, where new viral particles are assembled.
The research team has discovered a novel, broad-host-range Escherichia coli Jumbophage, named SHEFM2K. This phage initially attaches to bacterial flagella and assembles new viral particles within a cleared region of the bacterial cytoplasm, potentially representing a novel intracellular organelle.
The project aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this unusual infection process, investigate how the phage interacts with bacterial defence systems and uncover the architecture of its intracellular assembly structures.
Key Responsibilities
The selected PhD researcher will investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in Jumbophage infection.
Key research activities will include:
- Study how Jumbophage SHEFM2K infects bacterial cells and takes control of host cellular processes.
- Investigate the functions of putative phage defence and host-takeover genes involved in infection.
- Identify the bacterial surface determinants responsible for phage attachment and initial host engagement. Examine phage-resistant bacterial strains and identify how specific mutations influence resistance and phage infection.
- Analyse genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic datasets to understand changes occurring during phage infection.
- Apply computational approaches to investigate phage genomes, gene functions, host responses and molecular interactions.
- Characterise the intracellular architecture of Jumbophage assembly structures using advanced imaging techniques.
- Interpret experimental findings, contribute to scientific reports and communicate research outcomes through presentations and publications.
Qualifications and Skills Required
- A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent.
- Applicants from biological sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, physical sciences or mathematics are eligible.
- A relevant Master’s degree may be advantageous.
Candidates with experience or an interest in developing expertise in the following areas will find this project particularly relevant:
- General and molecular microbiology.
- Bacteriophage biology and phage–host interactions.
- Bacterial genetics and molecular biology.
- Microbial genomics and comparative genomics.
- Transcriptomics and proteomics.
- Bioinformatics and biological data analysis.
- Bacterial defence mechanisms and antimicrobial resistance.
- Molecular and structural imaging techniques.
- Computational analysis of biological datasets.
Training and Research Opportunities
The successful candidate will join an active research team working in infection biology and bacteriophage research. The project offers interdisciplinary training across:
- Microbiology and molecular biology.
- Phage genomics and bioinformatics.
- Transcriptomics and proteomics.
- Bacterial genetics and phage resistance.
- Structural imaging and intracellular organisation.
- Molecular mechanisms of bacterial infection.
The researcher will also benefit from the collaborative environment of the Yorkshire Bioscience Doctoral Training Partnership (YBDTP), which brings together research expertise from multiple universities across Yorkshire and Teesside.
Funding and Financial Support
This PhD studentship is supported by the BBSRC Yorkshire Bioscience Doctoral Training Partnership.
The funding package includes:
- Four years of PhD tuition fees at the UK home-student rate.
- Annual tax-free UKRI doctoral stipend of £21,805 (2026/27 reference rate).
- Research costs and associated training support.
International applicants: A limited number of full studentships are available for exceptional international candidates. Applicants should confirm whether their award covers the difference between home and international tuition fees.
Visa expenses, the Immigration Health Surcharge, travel insurance and travel to the UK are not included in the standard funding package.
PhD in Jumbophage Research in Sheffield employer: The Phage
The University of Salford offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers in the field of bacteriophage therapy, providing a collaborative environment with leading institutions like the University of Liverpool and the University of Limerick. With a strong focus on advancing oral health through innovative research, the university fosters a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development, while also contributing to meaningful solutions for global health challenges. This PhD position not only allows for hands-on laboratory experience but also promotes collaboration across disciplines, making it an ideal setting for those passionate about tackling antimicrobial resistance.
