The showcase featured a series of research presentations delivered by students representing a range of collaborative DTEs. These programmes offer cohort-based, funded PhDs with a strong emphasis on training and collaboration with partner institutions across the UK. The School has been actively involved in DTEs since 2019, beginning with the first intake to the QUADRAT Doctoral Training Programme in partnership with the University of Aberdeen.

There are currently 80 students registered with the School who are affiliated with one of seven diverse DTEs: QUADRAT, FoodBioSystems, OneZoo, NorthWestBio, SUSTAIN, QUARTILES, and NILab. Together, these programmes span a wide range of funding bodies, research themes and institutional partnerships.

The strength and breadth of research across the DTEs were clearly demonstrated through the student presentations, which were preceded by short introductions to each programme from academic DTE representatives.

 

FoodBioSystems

Shauna Clancy, "Characterisation of a peptidoglycan-recognition protein from the paramphistome, Calicophoron daubneyi"

Whitney Vale-Hagan, "Multi-functional food fibres as bio-based binders selectively modified using green technologies and enzymes"

 

OneZoo

Ellie Oliver, "Developing heartworm diagnostics towards improved understanding of infection risk and disease preparedness"

 

NorthWestBio

Gama Dominic, "Assessing development of resistance against antimicrobial peptides in tuberculous mycobacteria"

Dino Rocca, "Regulation of inflammasome function by the ubiquitin system"

 

SUSTAIN

Lauren Gilman, "Using machine learning to detect peanut allergens on food preparation surfaces using a portable easily available device"

 

The event offered attendees valuable insight into the innovative research taking place within the School, while also providing postgraduate taught students with a flavour of several DTE programmes that are currently recruiting for autumn 2026 entry.

Sincere thanks go to all of the students who presented, the academic staff who contributed to the programme introductions, and everyone who attended and supported the event. The showcase was a fitting celebration of the ongoing success of the School’s collaborative doctoral training programmes.