125th Anniversary Scholarship for Black British Researchers - Prebiotic Microcomposites for Personalised Microbiome Modulation in IBD and Health

Developing Next-Generation Prebiotics for Targeted Microbiome Restoration. This exciting PhD project sits at the cutting edge of microbiome research and biomaterials engineering, pioneering the development of Next-Generation Prebiotics— precision agents designed to selectively support beneficial bacteria in the gut.

A balanced gut microbiome is essential for health, yet dysbiosis— the loss of key bacterial populations— is linked to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diabetes, and colorectal cancer. By identifying novel natural materials that enhance the growth of key microbial species (including those which are depleted in disease), this research aims to revolutionise microbiome-targeted therapies and unlock personalised approaches to gut health and disease prevention.

The three main themes of research in this project are: 

1. Identifying novel prebiotic materials that selectively nourish health-promoting bacteria, particularly those depleted in diseases like IBD.
2. Using chemical engineering approaches to incorporate these prebiotic materials within agents which reach the intestine intact.
3. Validating these new prebiotic agents, using advanced bioreactor gut models to assess their ability to restore a healthy microbiome.

This project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a rapidly evolving and impactful area of science. Leveraging the expertise, recent advancements, and established networks of the supervisory team, this PhD project is designed to ensure the student makes a significant contribution to the field. This interdisciplinary project spans biochemical engineering, formulation development, microbiology, microbiome research, and translational science. It will equip the student with a diverse skill set, including quantitative, interdisciplinary, and translational research expertise, all underpinned by guidance from an experienced and dedicated supervisory team. Comprehensive training and support will be provided across all aspects of research, from experimental design and data analysis to the dissemination of findings. The successful candidate will have opportunities to present their work at national and international conferences, gaining exposure to leading researchers and cutting-edge ideas. Impactful results will be shared through peer-reviewed, open-access publications, ensuring wide recognition of the research.

Applicants will be expected to have a 2:1 or above in a relevant Honours degree, or an alternative qualification, or experience of equal quality, in the fields of Microbiology, Biomedical Science or Biomaterials Science. The ideal applicant will have laboratory experience within either Microbiology or Biomaterials science/chemical engineering (or both) – but full training will be provided where students only have experience in one subject field. If you're passionate about innovative microbiome research, biomedical engineering, and translational science, this project offers the chance to make a real-world impact in the development of next-generation gut health solutions.

For more information and to apply on-line, please click the above “Apply” button.

 Please contact Dr Richard Horniblow (r.horniblow@bham.ac.uk) for further information.

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information

The University of Birmingham is proud to celebrate its remarkable 125-year journey and announce the launch of a groundbreaking scholarship initiative designed to empower and support Black British researchers in their pursuit of doctoral education.

These newly established 3.5-year scholarships aim to address underrepresentation and create opportunities for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to excel in academia. You can find out more here: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/funding/black-british-researchers-scholarship

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