[UK] PhD IFR Studentship - Institute of Food Research
PhD Studentship: Impact of milder food processing on the microbiological safety of food
IFR Studentships
Institute of Food Research
Clostridium botulinum forms heat resistance spores and can produce highly poisonous botulinum neurotoxin, potentially a hazard in minimally heated refrigerated foods – a rapidly expanding part of the food market. This project will build on recent developments in quantitative microbiology to evaluate whether the default criterion provides an appropriate level of protection. The project will have two elements [1] laboratory-based tests to quantify genetic/physiological variability between strains of C. botulinum (e.g. use of DNA microarrays to asses genetic variability), and [2] modelling in a probabilistic framework, using relevant data on genetic/physiological variability and incidence of spores in food materials to support food safety decision making.
This is a three year FSA-funded studentship. Supervision will be by Prof. Mike Peck (microbiologist - C. botulinum) and Dr. Gary Barker (mathematician - probabilistic and graphical models).
This multi-disciplinary project would suit a microbiologist with interest/experience in mathematics, or a mathematician with interest/experience in microbiology. Training will be provided as required. The applicant must hold, or expect to receive, a minimum of upper second class degree in microbiology, mathematics, or a related field.
Funding applies to: EU applicants (including UK)
Contacts and how to apply
Administrative contact and how to apply:
For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our web site, http://www.ifr.ac.uk/students/search/details.asp?id=688
The closing date for applications is 31st August 2008. Interviews will be held in September 2008, with a start date anticipated before December 2008.
The Institute of Food Research is a registered charity (No 1058499) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
