Discovering the next generation of antibiotics (WILKINSON_J27DTP)
Key details
- Application Deadline
- 30 November 2026 23:59 UK Time
- Location
- John Innes Centre
- Funding Type
- Competition Funded (Home and International)
- Start Date
- 1 October 2027
- Mode of Study
- Full-time
- Programme Type
- PhD
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Project Description
Primary Supervisor - Professor Barrie Wilkinson
The continued evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria presents a significant threat to global health and new compounds with novel mechanisms of action are urgently needed. Most clinical antibiotics are derived from the specialised metabolites of Streptomyces strains, and on average a single Streptomyces strain encodes between 25-50 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) which encode for their production; many of these molecules will have antibiotic activity. However, more than 90% of these encoded specialised metabolites are not produced under laboratory conditions, meaning many new compounds remain to be discovered. To access the full metabolic potential of Streptomyces species, cryptic pathways encoding new molecules must be switched on under laboratory conditions.
In this crossdisciplinarity project the successful candidate will use genetic methods to systematically target the regulatory networks controlling specialised metabolite production. This will lead to new methods for accessing the silent arsenal of cryptic antibiotics encoded in bacterial genomes. They will develop an understanding of antibiotic function, discovery & development in addition to cutting edge training in molecular microbiology, natural products chemistry, antimicrobial resistance, biochemical analysis, and bioinformatics. These skills are essential to the next generation of bioscientists, and the candidate will be further supported in acquiring transferable skills such as written and spoken communication, problem solving and critical thinking and will help train visitors to the lab so s/he can gain skills in knowledge exchange. This combination of skills and experience will make the successful candidate highly employable in both academia and industry.
The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2027 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.
This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th February 2027.
Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk
Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background.
To maximise accessibility and attract students from underrepresented groups to our programme we have introduced bespoke templates for applicant Personal and Research statements which will enable every applicant to fully represent themselves through providing suitable examples and evidence. These forms are on the NRPDTP website and must be used for these sections of the application form.
Entry Requirements
At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).
Funding
This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2026/27 stipend rate: £21,805, and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.