A systematic approach to investigate how antiviral responses shape susceptibility to secondary infections

About the Project

Respiratory viral infections such as those caused by influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial viruses or coronaviruses are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Patterns of human immune responses to viruses and how this impacts risk of infections or onset/exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases is increasingly being recognised. However, how human immune responses to viruses affect antimicrobial responses to a second unrelated infectious diseases agent is not fully understood and this is critical to prevent the development of polymicrobial respiratory infections which frequently require the use of combinatorial antimicrobial therapy. The aim of this project is to understand how viral infections shape antifungal immunity and whether these responses are aberrant in patients with underlying respiratory conditions. We will focus on the effect of viral exposure (influenza and respiratory syncytial viral infections) on antimicrobial responses against the mould pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus because is a frequent cause of disease in immunocompromised patients and in those with a prior respiratory condition such as asthma.

We will use a range of immunological and microbiological approaches to identify the main pathways that contribute to shape antifungal responses upon viral infection. We will explore whether stimuli, cytokines and underlying condition as variables allow us to provide a framework for a greater understanding of host susceptibility and responses to secondary infections. We will also explore whether the fungal community in the respiratory tract (mycobiome) can influence host responses to viral infections.

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum 2:1 Bachelors Degree with Honours (or equivalent) in Biology or a related area / subject. Candidates with experience in molecular biology approaches or with an interest in fungal biology, virology and host-pathogen interactions are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a minimum Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD Microbiology Programme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website: Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 3 (high) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website