PhD studentship: Fully funded PhD position in the Interplay between Pathogen Surface Modification and Immunity at the IMI, University of Birmingham

Applicants are invited to apply for a fully funded PhD position (UK home fees only) at the Institute of Microbiology and Infection (IMI), University of Birmingham to work on a project aiming to uncover the role of bacterial cell surface in infection under the supervision of Prof. Yin Chen (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/biosciences/staff/profile?ReferenceId=206313&Name=professor-yin-chen). This studentship provides funding for tuitions fees (UK student only) and stipend (£19,237 per annum) during the entire course of the study (up to 3.5 years).

About the project.

A large group of Gram-negative pathogens can cause lung infection in immunocompromised individuals including cystic fibrosis patients. In our continued effort to better understand the physiology of membrane lipids in bacterial pathogens, we have recently found that many of these pathogens can change membrane lipids in infection. Thus, in response to nutrients or external stress during infection, these bacteria produce new membrane glycolipids to replace phospholipids. Importantly, this membrane lipid renovation pathway is essential for successful infection in insect infection models and macrophage models. The interplay between cell surface modification in these pathogens and their ability to invade innate immunity is a fascinating new field for developing novel drug targets. The aim of this PhD project is to systematically investigate the interplay of nutrients/stress, membrane remodelling and innate immunity, using a synthesis of molecular and cellular microbiology, biochemistry and 'omics' tools. The results of this project have the potential for help developing new drug targets for treating Gram-negative bacterial infection in human. 

Student training.

The successful candidate will join an enthusiastic team that provides a collaborative and supportive environment. Regular group meetings and problem-solving sessions are used to promote teamwork, problem solving and the continual development of a wider knowledge base and skill set. This project will provide high-quality, specialised training in cutting edge omics (proteomics, lipidomics, transcriptomics), modern molecular biology techniques as well as training in various infection models (insect, macrophages etc.)). The student will be trained in the dissemination of research output through writing scientific papers and patents and presenting at (inter)national conferences. As part of this project, the student will spend some time working at collaborators’ group at the Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Warwick. This will provide the student with valuable experience of collaboration.

Candidate Requirements: Good degree (2.1 or 1^st class) in microbiology (BSc or Masters), immunology or related fields. Must be willing to work independently and as part of a research team. The project will suit a student who enjoys travel and experiencing new collaboration.

How to Apply: Applications should be submitted via https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/LES025.htm (select PhD Biosciences FT, Full-time Research, 2024/25). We anticipate the project to start in October 2024, however, the position will remain open until filled.

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