PhD Student – Infection Biology, Biomedical Materials

Responsibilities

• Establish and optimise advanced 3D in vitro infection models (e.g. staphylococcal abscess communities)
• Investigate early events in infection establishment, including bacterial aggregation, fibrin encapsulation, and antibiotic tolerance
• Characterise neutrophil–bacteria interactions, including phagocytosis, ROS production, and bacterial killing
• Identify and evaluate immunomodulatory compounds that enhance neutrophil function
• Perform cell culture and co-culture experiments using primary human neutrophils and bacterial pathogens
• Apply advanced techniques including confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and molecular assays
• Analyse and interpret complex experimental datasets
• Contribute to interdisciplinary collaboration with biomaterials researchers within the PREPARE project

• Master’s degree in microbiology, infection biology, immunology, or a related life science discipline
• Practical experience in microbiology and/or host–pathogen interaction studies
• Experience with cell culture and immunological assays (e.g. flow cytometry, microscopy)
• Strong interest in infection biology, innate immunity, and translational research
• Ability to design, plan, and execute experimental studies independently
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Motivation to work in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment

• Experience working with primary immune cells (especially neutrophils)
• Familiarity with 3D cell culture or infection models
• Knowledge of bacterial physiology, antibiotic tolerance, or biofilms
• Experience with advanced imaging or transcriptomic approaches
• Interest in translational research and biomaterials-based therapeutic strategies

Demonstrates expertise in microbiology and infection biology, with a strong focus on advanced 3D in vitro infection models and neutrophil function. Proficient in experimental design, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration within life sciences.