Engineering biofilms for mechanically responsive living materials
About the Project
This project offers an exciting opportunity to explore the cutting-edge field of Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) through a combination of synthetic biology, biofilm modelling, and materials science. By designing and implementing systems that enable microbial biofilms to respond to mechanical stimuli, the research addresses an underexplored area with significant potential for transformative applications. The student will gain hands-on experience with advanced biofilm cultivation techniques, specialized equipment like the CDC bioreactor, and computational tools for biofilm modelling, supported by access to state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary expertise.
The successful candidate will be integrated into dynamic and collaborative research groups at Newcastle and Northumbria Universities, working alongside experts in synthetic biology, engineering, microbiology, and design. These groups provide a stimulating training environment that emphasizes both academic excellence and professional development. With opportunities to engage in applied research, such as implementing ELMs in wastewater infrastructure, and to develop transferable skills in knowledge exchange, bioscience communication, and teamwork, this project is ideal for candidates passionate about advancing innovative and impactful research in bioengineered materials.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications should be made by emailing needl@newcastle.ac.uk with:
· a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees);
· a covering letter – stating your project choice, as well as including whatever additional information you feel is pertinent to your application
· copies of your relevant undergraduate degree transcripts and certificates;
· a copy of your IELTS or TOEFL English language certificate (where required);
· a copy of your passport (photo page).
A GUIDE TO THE FORMAT REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE
Please submit your documents in the following format only:
- each document should be submitted as a separate attachment and should be named as follows: [candidate surname, candidate name – [document]]. For example: Jones, Jamie – CV; Jones, Jamie – personal statement; Jones, Jamie – BSc transcript.
- Please submit .pdf documents where possible for your CV, personal statement, transcripts and certificates. Do not submit photos of certificates.
- Do not combine documents into one pdf. You may zip separate documents into a zip file to send via email if required.
- Please only send the Application Details Form 2025 as a Word document (not pdf), named as follows: Application Details Form – surname, name.
- When emailing your application, please use the email subject header: NEEDL Application 2025
Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.
Informal enquiries may be made to needl@newcastle.ac.uk
The deadline for all applications is 12noon on Monday 31st March 2025.
Funding Notes
Studentships are funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) for 4 years. Funding will cover tuition fees at the UK rate only, a Research Training and Support Grant (RTSG) and stipend. We aim to support the most outstanding applicants from outside the UK and are able to offer a limited number of bursaries that will enable full studentships to be awarded to international applicants. These full studentships will only be awarded to exceptional quality candidates, due to the competitive nature of this scheme.
