HPRU DPhil studentship: Antimicrobial Resistance in Enterobacteriaceae

Lead Supervisor: Professor Tim Peto, Experimental Medicine Division, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford.

Project duration: 3 years

Funded by: National Institutes of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit

Project Summary:The National Institutes of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Healthcare Associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance at the Nuffield Department of Medicine wishes to offer a three year DPhil studentship tracking the spread of antimicrobial resistance and plasmid vectors in Enterobacteriaceae between humans and food animals, in collaboration with Public Health England (PHE) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). This project will capitalise on the archive of whole genome sequenced strains from human infection and colonisation with Enterobacteriaceae available at PHE, and strains from both humans and animals sequenced within the HPRU. It will require a keen interest in and enthusiasm for applying quantitative techniques to bacterial whole genome sequencing data in the field of antimicrobial resistance, together with an enquiring and flexible attitude and an interest in working collaboratively with researchers from different disciplines. Applicants with a background in biological or clinical sciences, or quantitative disciplines, are encouraged to apply.

The student will be located within a multidisciplinary group at the John Radcliffe Hospital including researchers with expertise in bioinformatics, statistical genetics, infectious diseases and microbiology. They will be expected to spend part of their time at PHE and APHA.The collaborative group is working at the forefront of research into pathogen genomics focussed on evolutionary and transmission studies as well as translating next generation sequencing into routine clinical and public health practice with PHE.

Further particulars: Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Sarah Walker ().

Person specification: Applications are invited from candidates who hold or expect to obtain a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant scientific discipline, or a Mastersdegree, or relevant experience.

Value of the award: The Studentship pays the College and University fees and has a generous stipend of £18,000 per annum, which is tax-free.

Application process: If you consider that you meet the person specification please email your application to application should consist of an up to date CV and supporting statement, which describes why in your opinion you would be the best candidate for the HPRU DPhil Studentship. You should also provide full details of two referees and indicate whether they can be contacted at this stage.

Closing date: Applications are to be received by Noon, Friday 1May 2015.

Interviews: Wednesday 13 May

Discipline: Biological and medical sciences

Subject area: Bioinformatics, Medical/Clinical science

Keywords: antibiotic, resistance, bacteria