Bacteriophage engineering as a therapeutic strategy to target antibiotic resistance

Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium are commensal gut bacteria that can become opportunistic pathogens, causing infections. These species are major contributors to the global antibiotic resistance crisis, leaving limited effective treatments. Bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) therefore represent a promising therapeutic avenue. We have isolated and characterised 55 phages targeting clinical enterococcal strains. Phage genomes have been sequenced in-house and classified through whole-genome phylogenetic analysis. The student will focus on the structural and functional characterisation of a subset of 4 phages, which display a small DNA genome through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and phage infection assays, setting an experimental framework for further phage engineering experiments to modify or expand phage host range. The primary aim is to validate strategies for the rational design of phage-based therapeutics, including engineered phages and phage cocktails against multidrug-resistant Enterococcus infections. The student will actively participate in laboratory work, data analysis and discussion of results. They will be supervised on a daily basis and will receive hands-on training in TEM and phage genetic engineering, while joining a vibrant and inclusive phage biology community in Sheffield. Students will need to find their own accommodation and be expected to present their findings orally at a research day in York on 08th September 2026.