PhD Studentship: Rapid diagnostics for antimicrobial resistance

Supervisory Team: Hywel Morgan, Dan Spencer and Franklin Nobrega (Biological Sciences)

PhD Supervisor: Hywel Morgan

Project description:

Antimicrobial resistance is expected to become a primary cause of death by 2050, with novel approaches to diagnostics urgently required. This project will develop a new sensor technology to diagnose bacterial infections rapidly. The research will be embedded in a rapid-paced environment combining a start-up, academia, and experimental medicine. This research is highly interdisciplinary and will merge Engineering, Microbiology and Biophysics to further our understanding of the phenotypic properties of bacteria upon exposure to different treatments and how to exploit these for diagnostics. Outcomes of this project will contribute to reducing antibiotic misuse and to developing experimental therapies such as phage therapy. The candidate should have a good degree in a physical science and an interest the development of new diagnostic systems.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact:

Prof Hywel Morgan, Digital Health and Biomedical Engineering Research Group, Email: hm@ecs.soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2025.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: This PhD opportunity is fully funded for all UK and EU students for 4 years.

How To Apply

Apply online by clicking the 'Apply' button, above. 

Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Elect & Elect Eng (Full time)”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor: Hywel Morgan

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Electronics & Computer Science is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. 

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