Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Antimicrobial Resistant Organisms in Freshwater Ecosystems

AMR is a growing threat to both environmental and human health, with freshwater ecosystems serving as critical vectors for AMR transmission. This PhD project aims to unravel the complex dynamics of AMR organisms, with a particular focus on carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs).

This interdisciplinary project bridges microbiology, environmental science, molecular biology, and geospatial analysis. The student will gain expertise in advanced molecular techniques, including cell integrity-qPCR assays for accurate quantification of viable AMR organisms and environmental sampling methodologies across diverse aquatic environments. It will also include training in mesocosm experimental design to simulate river conditions and study AMR organism behavior and data analysis specific to AMR research, integrating molecular data with environmental parameters.  The research aligns with the Red-ALERT CDT vision, addressing critical issues of AMR in freshwater environments and contributing to real-time monitoring and management systems. It directly tackles the Conwy Living Lab challenge by investigating AMR organisms as a crucial component of microbial pollution, with implications for water-based recreation and shellfish consumption risks.