BBSRC iCASE PhD studentship: Understanding Phage-Host Interactions to Improve Rapid Diagnosis of Early TB Infections in Humans (SCI1945)

Despite the WHO global End TB Strategy, Tuberculosis is still listed as one of the top 10 causes of human deaths worldwide. A major limitation of strategies to control this disease is that current diagnostic tests are inadequate. We have recently described a new rapid test for the detection of mycobacterial infections (Actiphage®) and shown that this can also be used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis in human blood samples as an early indication of active disease. The Actiphage test uses a bacteriophage that infects Mycobacteria and breaks open these difficult to lyse bacteria which are then detected using DNA-based identification methods. The Actiphage receptor on the bacterial cell surface remains unknown, but it is known that culture conditions affect phage infection. In the human body mycobacteria can transition to cell-wall deficient L-forms associated with persistent infection. The question remains whether L-form mycobacteria can be detected by Actiphage.

A range of methodologies will be used to better understand the mycobacterium-phage interaction, including generating bioluminescent and fluorescent derivatives of mycobacteria to simplify the microscopic detection of L-forms. In addition Transposon library will be screened to identify genes required for phage infection which can then be mutated using standard gene knock out technology. This information will be used to identify candidate receptor genes and test their role as putative receptors. The aim of the project will be to use the knowledge gained to determine whether L-forms in human blood samples can be detected using the Actiphage method and to provide further understanding of the role of L-forms in human infection. In addition to training in mycobacterial genetics, the student will be trained in working with pathogens up to BS level 3.

This PhD is supported by PBD Biotech Ltd which specialises in phage-based diagnostics (https://www.pbdbio.com/). It offers an exciting opportunity to develop research skills and work with an industry partner whilst addressing a global challenge to human health. 

Entry Requirement:. Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in either a microbiological or molecular bioscience, and preferably have some experience of microbiological culture.

Studentship information:

It is fully funded for four years. The award would be fees (£4409 p.a.) plus an annual stipend (£15,285 p.a. for Oct 2020), set by the Research Councils.

How to apply:

The preferred start date is 01/10/20. The 4-year PhD studentship will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate has been found, candidates are therefore encouraged to apply via https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/bbdtp/apply/apply-online.aspx as soon as possible. 

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact cath.rees@nottingham.ac.ukfor more details about the project or visiting https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/bbdtp/case-2020/case-2020.aspx

Closing date: noon, Tuesday 12 May 2020

Eligibility: This fully-funded studentship is available to UK students and EU students who have lived in the UK for 3 years prior to the start of their studies. EU students without meeting this criteria are eligible for a fees-only award.

Closing Date: 12 May 2020
Category: Studentships