University of Glasgow | PhD project on phenotypic heterogeneity in bacterial motility and collective chemotaxis
General Info
Phenotypic heterogeneity in bacterial motility and collective chemotaxis: an integrated experimental and multiscale modelling approach
Supervisors:
- Prof John MacKenzie, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde
- Prof Gabriela Gomes, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde
- Dr Leonardo Mancini, School of Biodiversity, University of Glasgow
Genetically identical bacterial cells can differ markedly in how they move, sense chemical gradients and respond to their surroundings. This nonheritable phenotypic variation may be central to how microbial populations migrate, adapt and persist in infection-relevant structured environments. This PhD project will investigate how variation in bacterial motility and chemotaxis shapes spatial organisation and population metabolic and stress-tolerance identity.
The student will combine experimental microbiology and imaging, with mathematical and computational modelling. They will use microfluidic assays and high-resolution live-cell imaging to measure single-cell movement, then translate these data into agent-based simulations and statistical inference frameworks that link individual behaviour to population-scale outcomes.
The project will be delivered through a cross-partner supervisory team at the University of Strathclyde and the University of Glasgow. Training will include quantitative microscopy, microfluidics, stochastic modelling, data analysis, computational simulation and interdisciplinary communication. Supported by NWB cohort training and a three-month Professional Internship for PhD students, the student will develop a broad skillset relevant to mathematical biology, microbial biophysics, biotechnology and data-driven bioscience.
How to Apply
To support fair and efficient processing of applications, we have introduced separate application timelines for international and home candidates.
International applicants can apply from 1 October to 30 November.
Home applicants can apply from 2 November to 4 January.
This change reflects the high volume of international applications we receive and our commitment to ensuring that all applications are fully processed and prepared before they are reviewed. Separate timelines allow us to undertake the additional eligibility and documentation checks often required for international applications, helping to ensure a fair and consistent assessment process for all candidates.
Home and international candidates applying for the NorthWestBio programme, have to complete the online application through the UofG application portal first.
Candidates who are successfully shortlisted will be invited for interview around the end of February 2027. Interviews will take place around mid March 2027.
Eligibility
Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a first or upper second class UK honours degree, or the international equivalent in an appropriate area of science.
We are able to accept applications from international students, with international student places making up 30% of our cohort each year.
To be classed as a home student, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a UK National (meeting residency requirements), or
- Have settled status, or
- Have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements), or
- Have indefinite leave to remain or enter
All other candidates will be classed as an International student.
All successful candidates (Home or International) will receive full tuition and stipend support. Please note that we are unable to provide supporting costs for visas or International Health Surcharge for any student. If selected, by attending the interview, candidates are confirming that they are able to cover these costs independently.
Application and more details: https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/doctoraltraining/northwestbio/projects/pathogens/johnmackenzie/
