GW4 BioMed3 MRC DLP PhD project: Turning up the volume: plasmid copy number and gene duplications as drivers of antimicrobial resistance evolution

About the project

About the Project This project is one of several in competition for funding from the GW4 BioMed3 MRC Doctoral Landscape Programme (DLP), which is offering up to 17 studentships for entry in September 2027. The partnership brings together the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter to develop the next generation of biomedical researchers. Students will have access to the combined research strengths, training expertise and resources of the four research-intensive universities. More information may be found on the DLP’s website . Please note that the application process may close early to either home or international candidates (or both) before the stated deadline if an unprecedented number of applications are received – check the DLP’s website for details and updates. Supervisory Team: Dr William Matlock (University of Bath) Prof Tiffany Taylor (University of Bath) Dr Sion Bayliss (University of Bristol) Dr Catherine Tooke (University of Bath) The Project : Plasmids are important drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), complicating infections and causing outbreaks. Plasmids frequently alter their structure by duplicating genes, and they can dynamically adjust their copy number. This project investigates whether these phenomena act as evolutionary drivers for AMR, “turning up the volume” on gene dosage to accelerate adaptation and innovation. Combining large-scale genomic surveillance data from hospital bloodstream infections with experimental evolution, you will characterise how pathogens use plasmid flexibility to survive. This work will reshape our understanding of superbug evolution and improve how we track dangerous resistance genes globally. Requirements: Applicants must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of medical sciences, computing, mathematics or the physical sciences. Applicants with a lower second-class degree will only be considered if they have a grade of Merit or above in a master’s degree. Academic qualifications are considered alongside significant relevant non-academic experience Non-UK applicants will also be required to have met the English language entry requirements of the University of Bath. Enquiries and Applications: Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Matlock: wtm35@bath.ac.uk Formal applications must be submitted direct to the GW4 BioMed3 DLP using their online application form . A list of all the projects and details on how to apply are available DLP’s website . You may apply for up to 2 projects and submit one application per candidate only. APPLICATIONS CLOSE AT 17:00 (GMT) ON 21 OCTOBER 2026. IMPORTANT: You do NOT need to apply to the University of Bath at this stage – only those applicants who are successful in obtaining an offer of funding from the DTP will be required to submit an application for an offer of study from Bath. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups. If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

Research areas