Location: Galway, Connacht, Ireland
Salary: €25,000 per annum (tax-exempt)
Application Deadline: 30th May 2025
Start Date: 1st September 2025
The University of Galway is offering an exciting, fully-funded PhD scholarship focused on Phytate-Utilising Bacteria for improving soil health and plant growth. This prestigious opportunity is hosted by the College of Science and Engineering and provides extensive training in microbial genomics, molecular biology, and advanced microbiology techniques.
About the University of Galway
Situated in the lively cultural city of Galway, Ireland, the University of Galway (formerly NUI Galway) is renowned for its world-class research and teaching excellence. With over 18,000 students and 2,400 staff, it is a hub for scientific innovation, tackling global challenges and promoting sustainable solutions across multiple disciplines.
Research Focus: Phytate-Utilising Bacteria for Sustainable Agriculture
Modern agriculture faces critical challenges due to the heavy reliance on rock phosphate fertilizers, sourced mainly from Morocco and Russia. With global phosphate reserves under threat, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed.
This PhD research project will explore how phytate-utilising bacteria can unlock phosphorus bound in soil, making it available for plant uptake. By understanding the genetic mechanisms behind phytate degradation, this project aims to develop biofertilizers that reduce dependency on rock phosphate, enhancing soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Key Research Objectives:
- Investigate the genetic basis of phytate utilisation in soil bacteria.
- Evaluate the ecological importance of different phytate degradation systems across various ecosystems.
- Design and develop microbial biofertilizers to boost soil health and plant productivity sustainably.
The project will utilize state-of-the-art technologies such as next-generation DNA sequencing, genomics, molecular biology, and advanced microbiology techniques, offering the candidate hands-on experience with cutting-edge research tools.
Supervision and Support
The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Paul Sheridan, an expert in microbial genomics, physiology, and genetics. Dr. Sheridan’s pioneering research continues to advance our understanding of microbial systems and their application in agricultural sustainability and environmental health.
Scholarship Details
- Annual Living Allowance: €25,000 (tax-exempt)
- University Fees: Fully covered by the scholarship
- Duration: Starting from 1st September 2025
- Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must hold, or expect to hold by September 2025, a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree (2.1) in Microbiology or a closely related field.
How to Apply
To apply for this PhD scholarship, candidates must submit the following documents:
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the project and your suitability for the position.
- An updated CV detailing academic qualifications and relevant experience.
- Contact information for two academic referees.
Application Submission:
Send your application via email to Dr. Paul Sheridan at sheridanlabrecruit@gmail.com by 30th May 2025 (5:00 PM Irish Time).
Why Pursue Your PhD at the University of Galway?
- World-Class Research Facilities: Access to cutting-edge laboratories and resources.
- Real-World Impact: Contribute to global solutions for food security and sustainable farming.
- Comprehensive Research Training: Gain expertise in genomics, microbial biotechnology, and molecular techniques.
- Career Development: Be part of a vibrant research community and enhance your academic and professional profile.
Start your journey toward making a lasting impact in sustainable agriculture and soil health research. Apply today and join the University of Galway’s commitment to shaping a better future!