Biofilms: Hidden Engines Driving Antimicrobial Resistance?

Funded through an IBioIC Industrial PhD Training Programme in partnership with Scottish Water, we aim to develop a deeper understanding of any points which may support accumulation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in wastewater treatment works including ubiquitous biofilms. AMR is one of the greatest threats to global health, projected to cause 10 million premature deaths every year by 2050 therefore understanding if current wastewater treatments contribute to accumulation of AMR within them would allow the introduction of interventions to reduce and effectively monitor levels of AMR.

This project will combine the internationally recognised biofilm expertise and modelling experience of Dr Spencer and Professor Ramage at GCU with the water industry expertise from Dr Ania Escudero and Scottish Water.

This project is available as a 4 year full-time PhD study programme starting 1st October 2026.