PhD Studentship: From Ward to Genomics: Investigating Trends and Biology of Invasive Campylobacter Infections

Primary supervisor – Dr Nicol Janecko 

This studentship aims to 1) explore the genomic indicators for Campylobacter virulence (invasion into the bloodstream), compare antimicrobial resistance profiles with non-invasive strains and assess clinical impacts that affect patient care; and 2) to produce clinically relevant antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles of invasive strains that inform local clinical strategies for patient care. To do this, advanced molecular, sequencing and bioinformatic tools will be utilised alongside clinical data that will provide a link between genomic and epidemiological data.

You will join the research group of Dr Nicol Janecko, an expert in Campylobacter epidemiology and genomics at Quadram Institute Bioscience, an inter-disciplinary research facility. The access to advanced sequencing technologies, expertise in comparative genomics, microbiology, molecular epidemiology and bioinformatic approaches uniquely place this studentship at the forefront of translational and applied research. The supervisory team includes Dr Matthew Gilmour, Dr Gemma Langridge and Dr Ngozi Elumogo who bring expertise in clinical microbiology, patient care, genomics and bioinformatics to the project. Whilst joining a vibrant research community of students, post-doctoral research scientists and researchers, there are wider supportive links with facilities across the Norwich Research Park and Dr Janecko’s extensive international collaborations.

This studentship is ideal for a student seeking an opportunity in pathogenesis, high-resolution genomic exploration and direct impacts to human health. For enquiries contact nicol.janecko@quadram.ac.uk.

The Microbes, Microbiomes and Bioinformatics (MMB) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) is open to UK and international candidates with relevant undergraduate degrees for entry in October 2025 and offers the opportunity to undertake a fully-funded 4-year PhD research project supported by the UKRI Medical Research Council in microbiology and microbial bioinformatics.

Our unique and comprehensive training programme empowers students to feel comfortable running sophisticated computer analyses alongside laboratory work and emphasises problem-based learning in microbial bioinformatics, professional development and research skills. All MMB DTP students undertake a Professional Placement.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place on Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 May 2025.

The MMB DTP is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Students are selected without regard to age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation or social background. We value curiosity, independence of thought, plus an aptitude for research that combines laboratory work and bioinformatics.

For information on eligibility and how to apply: www.uea.ac.uk/phd/mmbdtp

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information 

This project is awarded with a 4-year fully-funded studentship including direct payment of tuition fees to the University, stipend for living expenses (2025/26 rate: £20,780) and a Research Training Support Grant for each year of the studentship.

Please complete your application via the ‘Apply’ button above.

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