Identification and evaluation of novel anti-virulence compounds to prevent Candida pathogenicity

About the Project

Human fungal pathogens are often described as ‘hidden killers’ as they kill more people every year than malaria and many so called ‘super-bugs’ but are often overlooked. Current anti-fungal drugs are limited, and many fungal pathogens are developing resistance to these drugs, hence there is a clear unmet clinical need for novel drug treatments. To drive forward antifungal drug discovery, we need to better understand the pathobiology of these ‘hidden killers’. *Candida albicans* is one of the major human fungal pathogens causing almost 1 million deaths per annum. In this project you will investigate how *C. albicans* acquires essential nutrients during infection of the human host, because this is intimately linked with virulence, and identify compounds that inhibit this key virulence trait.

Specifically, you will build on exciting findings from the research team that acquisition of the macronutrient phosphate is vital for *C. albicans* virulence. Strikingly, phosphate acquisition is essential for this fungus to survive host-imposed stresses during infection, and *C. albicans* cells unable to acquire phosphate are acutely sensitive to macrophage killing. The aim of this project is to build on these findings and employ high-throughput screening technologies to identify novel regulators of the PHO phosphate acquisition pathway in *C. albicans*, and small molecules that block activation of this pathway. Using a multidisciplinary approach, you will be trained in high-throughput screening, molecular genomics, fluorescence microscopy, phosphate analysis, and virulence models. This combination of approaches will uncover new virulence determinants and initiate the development of improved therapeutic strategies for treating fungal infections. You will also join a vibrant research team committed to the promotion and career progression of early career researchers.

Funding

Students who have, or are expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, are invited to apply. Funding is available for Home (UK) students to cover tuition fees, a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (indicative amount in year 1 in 2026-27, £21,805) and research costs, for four years. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

Funding for this studentship is awarded on a competitive basis and is not guaranteed; availability will depend on the outcome of the selection process and subject to final approval by the University.

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the following application form – Google Form

**Applicants can only apply for 1 project; any additional applications will not be accepted.**

Applicants should send the following documents to FMSstudentships@newcastle.ac.uk:

• a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees).
• a Cover letter – stating your project choice, as well as including 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 type. For example: Jones, Jamie – CV; Jones, Jamie – cover letter.
• Please submit .pdf documents where possible for your CV, cover letter, 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.
• When emailing your application, please use the email subject header: FMS PhD Application 2026

Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.

Informal enquiries may be made to the lead supervisor of the project you are interested in.

**The deadline for all applications is 12 noon BST (UK time) on Wednesday 20th May 2026.**