PhD Project in Bacteriophage Engineering

The University of Sheffield is inviting applications for a self-funded PhD position in Bacteriophage Engineering aimed at developing novel therapeutic strategies to target antibiotic-resistant enterococci. The project focuses on using bacteriophages as precision tools for combating multi-drug-resistant pathogens, with an emphasis on engineering phages to expand their host range.

This project is ideal for individuals with a PhD or those nearing completion of their PhD in microbiology, genomics, or molecular biology, who are interested in applying their expertise to the emerging field of phage therapy. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to engage in cutting‑edge research, potentially leading to significant contributions in the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections.

The successful applicant will be part of a dynamic research team under the supervision of Dr. Stephane Mesnage and Prof. G. Stafford. The research will provide an excellent opportunity for independent work in the areas of bacteriology, bioinformatics, genomics, and microbiology.

The research will focus on bacteriophage engineering and its potential as a therapeutic strategy against Vancomycin‑Resistant Enterococci (VRE), which are responsible for both hospital‑acquired and community infections. The specific objectives of the project include:

• Characterizing receptor binding proteins of phages targeting enterococci and investigating the molecular mechanisms that enable these phages to recognize bacterial cell wall structures.
• Engineering recombinant phages to modify their host range using techniques such as golden gate assembly and error‑prone PCR.
• Testing the therapeutic potential of recombinant phages against planktonic cultures, biofilms, and in host‑pathogen interaction models, including zebrafish.

• Conduct independent and innovative research in bacteriophage engineering
• Characterize and modify phage receptor binding proteins
• Engineer phages with extended host ranges for therapeutic applications
• Test phage efficacy in both planktonic and biofilm cultures, and in zebrafish infection models
• Publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals

• A PhD in Microbiology, Genomics, Molecular Biology, or a related field (or be in the process of completing your PhD)
• Strong laboratory experience in bacteriology, molecular biology techniques, or phage biology

• Experience in bacteriophage biology and protein engineering
• Strong analytical and bioinformatics skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment