The University of Southampton, UK, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD studentship focused on developing engineered bacteriophage therapies for complex musculoskeletal (MSK) conflict wounds.
The research aims to address two major challenges in battlefield injuries: antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and impaired tissue regeneration. The project will investigate whether engineered bacteriophages can simultaneously reduce bacterial infections and promote vascularised tissue repair, with particular attention to sex-specific responses to injury and treatment.
Key Responsibilities
The successful PhD candidate will be responsible for:
- Developing advanced in vitro 3D cell and tissue models to investigate complex musculoskeletal trauma.
- Engineering and characterising bacteriophages with dual functions targeting bacterial infection and tissue repair.
- Investigating the effectiveness of engineered phages in reducing bacterial burden in contaminated wounds.
- Studying the relationship between bacterial infection, vascularisation and musculoskeletal tissue regeneration.
- Evaluating sex-specific differences in injury responses and treatment outcomes.
- Conducting microbiological assays to assess phage activity and antimicrobial effectiveness.
- Applying advanced imaging techniques to monitor infection, vascular development and tissue repair.
- Performing quantitative and molecular analyses to understand the mechanisms underlying infection control and tissue regeneration.
- Analysing experimental data, interpreting research findings and contributing to scientific publications.
- Collaborating with researchers and interdisciplinary teams working in microbiology, phage engineering, regenerative medicine and military health research.
Qualifications & Skills Required
Applicants should possess:
- An undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK 2:1 honours degree.
- A relevant academic background in Microbiology, Medical Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Pharmacy, Medicine or a related life science discipline.
- A strong interest in bacteriophage research, antimicrobial resistance, tissue engineering or regenerative medicine.
- An interest in interdisciplinary research combining microbiology and biomedical sciences.
The following skills and research interests would be relevant to this project:
- Knowledge of microbiology, bacteriology and antimicrobial resistance.
- Understanding of bacteriophage biology, phage-host interactions and phage-based antimicrobial approaches.
- Interest in bacteriophage engineering and therapeutic applications.
- Familiarity with microbiological techniques and experimental research.
- Understanding of cell culture, 3D tissue models or tissue engineering.
- Interest in vascular biology, wound healing and tissue regeneration.
- Skills in molecular biology, microscopy and advanced imaging would be advantageous.
- Ability to perform quantitative analysis, interpret experimental results and communicate scientific findings.
- Strong scientific writing, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
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PhD in Engineered Bacteriophage Therapies for Musculoskeletal Wound Healing in Southampton 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.
