University of Guelph Canada Scholarship Programme for MSc and PhD 2025/2026 – Apply Now
This is to inform the general public of University of Guelph Canada Scholarship currently ongoing for all interested and qualified persons to apply or register using the application guidelines provided in the portal below.
University of Guelph Canada Scholarship Programme for MSc and PhD 2025/2026 – Apply Now
Position Description: Two fully funded Graduate Student (MSc or PhD) positions are available in 2025-2026 (start date in the Summer, Winter, or Fall semesters) in the Cox lab, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph
Research Program and Position:
The Cox lab studies the genetic and molecular basis of antimicrobial resistance and virulence mechanisms in pathogenic bacteria. The ultimate goal is the development of new therapeutics to control bacterial infections. This graduate student position is supported by funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the leading global health threats facing humanity.
This research focuses on pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria, for which there is an immediate need for new therapeutics. Escherichia coli is a high-priority pathogen estimated to be the leading cause of global deaths associated with AMR. Unfortunately, Gram-negative bacteria harbor a complex intrinsic antimicrobial resistome that has hindered the development of new antibiotic classes. Indeed, efflux pumps and the barrier functions of the outer membrane have been major hurdles in discovering new antibiotics targeting these organisms.
This work will explore E. coli efflux pump function and the cell envelope’s formidable barrier functions, enabling the development of next-generation antimicrobial agents.
Our goals are to (1) determine molecular features contributing to E. coli efflux and outer membrane permeation, (2) investigate whether efflux pumps are attractive antimicrobial targets, and (3) uncover novel cell envelope-associated targets and chemical leads for new antimicrobial development.
Independent and self-motivated applicants with a strong background in Biochemistry, Microbiology, or Molecular Biology and Genetics are encouraged to apply. Past laboratory experience (undergraduate research project, volunteering or similar) is an asset. This is a fully funded position ($25k/year MSc; $30k/year PhD, which includes a Graduate Teaching Assistant appointment), and depending on eligibility, students will also be expected to apply for internal and external scholarships. See the full list of available Scholarships and Awards for more information.
Relevant publications relating to this work:
Zhu et al., The inactivation of tolC sensitizes Escherichia coli to perturbations in lipopolysaccharide transport. iScience. 27:5 (2024)
Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
50 Stone Rd E
Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x54991
gcox@uoquelph.ca
