PhD Studentship - Improving the Solvent Tolerance of E. Coli by Understanding the Rules of Accumulation

About the role

The successful candidate will work on a PhD project aimed at improving the solvent tolerance of E. coli through a deeper understanding of the rules governing accumulation of toxic molecules. The project will involve studying how solvents enter and leave bacterial cells, and how they affect bacterial physiology. Later stages may incorporate microbiology with quantitative modeling, engineering bacterial strains with improved solvent tolerance, or developing intensified bioreactor processes.

Responsibilities

• Study the mechanisms by which solvents enter and exit bacterial cells
• Analyze the effects of solvents on bacterial physiology
• Collaborate with supervisors from microbial physiology, mathematical modeling, and efflux pumps to design and execute experiments
• Develop and engineer bacterial strains with enhanced solvent tolerance
• Conduct comparative studies to evaluate the impact of improved solvent tolerance on production yields

Requirements

The ideal candidate should have or expect to obtain at least an Upper Second-Class Honours Degree in a relevant field such as life or physical sciences. Previous experience in microbiology, biochemistry, or related fields is advantageous.

Qualifications

The project requires a strong academic background and a passion for interdisciplinary research. Candidates must also demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience with molecular biology techniques
• Knowledge of bacterial physiology and metabolism
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Good communication and presentation skills

Benefits

The project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of bacterial physiology and biotechnology. The successful candidate will have the chance to work alongside experienced researchers and contribute to a collaborative project spanning multiple institutions.

Pay

The funding for this PhD is provided by the University of Birmingham and is specifically for UK students only.

Schedule

The project is expected to run for three years, with the start date being flexible but typically within the first half of 2027.