Expires on: 02/12/2024
Two PhD Scholarships in Food Microbiology in Ireland; DETCON: Detection and Control of Listeria monocytogenes in food production; Walsh Scholarship Refs. 2023260 and 2023258
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause the potentially fatal foodborne infection listeriosis, a problem that has been increasing in Europe in recent years. Its ubiquitous presence in the environment and stress tolerant nature means that it is a major challenge for producers of ready-to-eat foods.
The DAFM funded DETCON project aims to tackle the problem of identifying persistent and virulent strains of L. monocytogenes to help mitigate the health risk posed and to provide innovative solutions to help in the control and detection of this organism in the food processing environment, reducing the need for product recalls.
The project will also investigate the impact of exposure to these treatments on the response of L. monocytogenes to other environmental stressors. This PhD student will be based at Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin under the supervision of Dr Kaye Burgess and registered at University of Galway under the supervision of Prof Conor O’Byrne.
Requirements
Applicants should have a 1H or 2H1 B.Sc. degree in an appropriate discipline (Microbiology, Food Science, or similar). Experience of handling pathogenic microorganisms would be a distinct advantage.
Award
The funding is €31,000 per annum, which includes University fees of up to a maximum of €6,000 plus a flat rate stipend of €25,000 and is tenable for 4 years.
How to apply
Please submit an electronic copy of Curriculum Vitae and a letter of interest to the email addresses below by Monday, 12th February at 5.00 pm. Prof Olivia McAuliffe (olivia.mcauliffe@teagasc.ie ); Dr Kaye Burgess (kaye.burgess@teagasc.ie)