Phenotypic heterogeneity in bacterial motility and collective chemotaxis: an integrated experimental and multiscale modelling approach
Supervisors:
Prof John MacKenzie, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde
Prof Gabriela Gomes, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Strathclyde
Dr Leonardo Mancini, School of Biodiversity, University of Glasgow
Summary:
Genetically identical bacterial cells can differ markedly in how they move, sense chemical gradients and respond to their surroundings. This nonheritable phenotypic variation may be central to how microbial populations migrate, adapt and persist in infection-relevant structured environments. This PhD project will investigate how variation in bacterial motility and chemotaxis shapes spatial organisation and population metabolic and stress-tolerance identity.
The student will combine experimental microbiology and imaging, with mathematical and computational modelling. They will use microfluidic assays and high-resolution live-cell imaging to measure single-cell movement, then translate these data into agent-based simulations and statistical inference frameworks that link individual behaviour to population-scale outcomes.
The project will be delivered through a cross-partner supervisory team at the University of Strathclyde and the University of Glasgow. Training will include quantitative microscopy, microfluidics, stochastic modelling, data analysis, computational simulation and interdisciplinary communication. Supported by NWB cohort training and a three-month Professional Internship for PhD students, the student will develop a broad skillset relevant to mathematical biology, microbial biophysics, biotechnology and data-driven bioscience.