PhD in Molecular Microbial Ecology Focusing on Phage–Host Interactions
The Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI), Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Germany, is inviting applications for a PhD position in Molecular Microbial Ecology focusing on phage–host interactions. This research opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about bacteriophage biology, microbial ecology, aquaculture, and climate change research.
The doctoral project aims to investigate how lytic bacteriophages interact with pathogenic bacteria in aquatic environments and evaluate their potential as sustainable alternatives to antibiotics for disease management in aquaculture.
quaculture is facing increasing challenges from vibriosis, a bacterial disease caused by pathogenic members of the Vibrio splendidus clade and other Vibrionaceae. Rising seawater temperatures associated with climate change are increasing both the prevalence and virulence of these pathogens, threatening aquaculture production and natural shellfish populations.
This PhD project will explore how bacteriophages can be used as environmentally friendly biological control agents to combat bacterial diseases affecting aquaculture species, particularly the European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis).
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to research activities that include:
- Isolating bacteria and bacteriophages from aquaculture systems and natural marine environments.
- Characterizing bacterial and phage isolates using:
- MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
- FTIR Spectroscopy
- Whole-Genome Sequencing
- Bioinformatics tools
- Conducting experimental trials with European flat oyster larvae to evaluate the effectiveness of bacteriophage therapy.
- Investigating phage–host interactions under different temperature conditions to assess resilience under climate change scenarios.
- Analysing genomic and phenotypic datasets to better understand phage-host dynamics and their application in sustainable aquaculture.
Qualifications & Skills Required
Applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:
- Microbiology
- Aquatic Sciences
- Environmental Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Related Life Science disciplines
- Strong background in molecular aquatic ecology and bioinformatics.
- Experience working in laboratory and field research environments.
- Excellent English language skills (approximately CEFR C1).
- Basic German language skills (approximately CEFR A1–A2).
This PhD project addresses one of the most pressing challenges in modern microbiology: developing sustainable alternatives to antibiotics for controlling bacterial diseases in aquaculture.
By combining phage biology, microbial ecology, genomics, bioinformatics, and climate science, the research aims to advance our understanding of phage–host interactions while supporting environmentally sustainable aquaculture practices.
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