Metagenomic Workflows for Diagnostic Applications in Gastrointestinal Infections (MATHERA_Q26NIHR)
University of East AngliaNorwich Research Park, Norwich
Course overview
The UKHSA genomic strategy prioritizes "democratization" of sequencing—moving diagnostics closer to the point-of-care. Metagenomics offers a "catch-all" tool to identify pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) without slow bacterial culture. This PhD aims to bridge the gap between research-grade metagenomics and surveillance utility for gastrointestinal (GI) infections.
Current PCR methods are limited by detecting only pre-specified targets. Leveraging shotgun metagenomics and advanced bioinformatics, this project will establish the evidence base for: direct-from-sample diagnostics by - 1) Benchmarking Pathogen Detection: Investigate analytical sensitivity and "diagnostic cut-offs" to distinguish active infection from healthy asymptomatic carriage. 2) AMR Profiling: Map the baseline carriage of resistance genes in healthy vs. diseased populations, using metagenome-assembled genomes to link AMR determinants to specific microbes.
Key highlights
- Applies shotgun metagenomics and advanced bioinformatics to gastrointestinal infection diagnostics
- Aligned with UKHSA genomic strategy to move sequencing closer to point-of-care
- Benchmarks pathogen detection sensitivity and diagnostic cut-offs for active infection
- Maps antimicrobial resistance gene carriage in healthy and diseased populations
- Uses metagenome-assembled genomes to link resistance determinants to specific microbes
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:1 — 2:1
Careers this course leads to
- Bioinformatician
- Clinical genomics scientist
- Public health microbiologist
- Postdoctoral research associate
- Genomic surveillance scientist
- Antimicrobial resistance researcher
Cost of study
UK/Home: £5,181 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of East Anglia, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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