Funded PhD: Landscape models of AMR refugia and the impact on the evolution of resistance

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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global issue which is characterised by substantial variation in prevalences of resistance across different countries and settings, such healthcare, agriculture, the community and the environment, also by co-existence of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant strains. Refugia—environments where sensitive strains survive without antibiotic pressure—play a key role in mitigating AMR. However, practical knowledge of refugia at large scales remains limited. One significant resistance type, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), emerged in the 1980s, spread to community infections by the 1990s, and became endemic by the 2000s. ESBL-producing E. coli is now prevalent worldwide, with heterogeneity observed across high- and low-income countries, healthcare, and community settings, as well as coexistence of sensitive and resistant strains.

Focusing on E. coli, this project will develop agent-based models to explore the evolution of bacterial resistance. The model will account for infection dynamics, horizontal transmission, and refugia, at multiple spatial scales. The outcome of the project will be an improved understanding of how refugia impact the rate of evolution and how they can be better exploited to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a degree in a relevant subject.

This funded PhD project is part of the MVLS College Futures PhD Programme. The MVLS College Futures PhD Programme is an ambitious initiative from The College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences (MVLS) at the University of Glasgow, designed to cultivate the next generation of research leaders. Commencing in October 2025, this programme offers up to 12 fully-funded PhD studentships, each spanning 3.5 years and providing a comprehensive package that includes a stipend at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) rates, coverage of home tuition fees, and a generous allocation of up to £17,500 for research consumables.

The MVLS College Futures PhD Programme is intricately aligned with the MVLS 2033 vision, focusing on four pivotal research themes:

1. Fundamentals of Life: Aiming to position the University as a globally recognized center for discovery bioscience, this theme emphasizes groundbreaking fundamental research.
2. Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics: Dedicated to pioneering the development and implementation of next-generation clinical interventions for both human and animal health.
3. Health Inequalities: Focused on unraveling the root causes and consequences of health disparities, this theme seeks to devise and apply scalable solutions to bridge health gaps.
4. Planetary Health: Exploring the intricate relationships between environmental changes and the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems, this theme strives to identify and assess innovative strategies to mitigate emerging threats.

Read more about the MVLS College Futures PhD Programme

https://www.gla.ac.uk/colleges/mvls/graduateschool/phd-research-opportunities/futures-programme/

Application closing date: March 5, 2025

Programme start date: October 2025