PhD Studentship: Developing Improved Diagnostic Tests for Vitamin B12 (WARREN_Q24CASE)

Primary supervisor - Professor Martin Warren 

This PhD opportunity is ideal for graduates in biochemistry or biomedical science with a keen interest in protein science and its application in developing new diagnostic tests and assays. Recently, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) issued comprehensive guidelines on diagnosing and treating vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12, crucial for red blood cell and nerve formation, is mainly sourced from animal and dairy products, making plant-based diets deficient in this nutrient. This poses a risk of deficiency for those transitioning to more sustainable diets without proper supplementation. The project aims to address this need by developing tests for B12 deficiency suitable for clinical and home use.

Accurately detecting vitamin B12 levels is difficult due to its low concentration and the limitations of current testing methods, which only identify about one third of deficient patients. Our team at the Quadram Institute has discovered innovative vitamin B12-binding proteins capable of detecting minute amounts of the nutrient in blood. We plan to integrate these proteins into lateral flow assays to improve sensitivity and specificity compared to existing tests. This integration will also enable signal amplification, facilitating rapid and precise B12 detection, even at pico-molar concentrations. Additionally, we will explore novel mass spectrometry approaches for direct nutrient detection in blood serum.

The successful student will have the chance to develop essential skills in cutting-edge analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, protein science, high-affinity binding, and diagnostics, particularly in the utilization of lateral flow devices. They will be part of a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team of scientists at QIB, fostering a supportive and enthusiastic research environment. Additionally, they will undertake placement visits at William Oak Diagnostics, pioneers in the field of lateral flow devices.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will potentially be interviewed on 4, 5, and 6 June 2024.

For further information on eligibility and how to apply please visit here.

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalence Master's degree. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) PhD studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2023/4 stipend rate: £18,622), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship. 

Advert information