Biosciences: Fully Funded EPSRC DTP PhD in The Algalnets Unravelling The Assembly of Microbial Interactive Communities in Algal Bioreactor

This is an exciting opportunity to explore the role of complex ecological communities in promoting resilience and maximising yields in large-scale algal bioreactors exposed to different environmental conditions. The specific aim is to optimise the large-scale production of a high-value carotenoid compound that is naturally released in nanoparticle form by a marine alga.

The questions we address are how does the microbial community change during cultivation across the seasons, what is the impact of the microbial community on culture resilience or productivity, and can this process be modelled? The project will integrate environmental inputs, algae physiological parameters and microbial community eDNA data to develop predictive models which can be utilised to develop an optimal cultivation strategy. 

The project is cross-disciplinary in nature, building skills in molecular biology, bioinformatics, ecological modelling, algal physiology and cultivation. We are looking for a highly self-motivated individual able to progress both the computational and laboratory aspects of the project to maximum effect.

Funding Details

Funding Comment

This scholarship covers the full cost of UK tuition fees and an annual stipend of £19,237.

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available.

Scholarship open to UK and international fee-eligible applicants. 

EPSRC DTP studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students, once the limit has been reached, we are unable to make offers to international students.     

We are still accepting applications from international applicants.  

International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rates. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements. 

Advert information