Investigation of host-virus interactions

About the Project

The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology invites applications from prospective postgraduate researchers who wish to commence study for a PhD in the academic year 2025/26 in the area of molecular virology.

This opportunity is open to candidates who have the means to self fund their studies or who have a sponsor who will cover this cost. We especially welcome applications that connect to the School's core research areas, which are understanding life in molecular and cellular detail, with particular relevance to infectious disease.

Bunyaviruses hold significant importance due to their impact on human health, agriculture, and ecosystems. These viruses are responsible for various diseases in humans, including Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, both of which can be severe and even fatal. Beyond their effects on human health, bunyaviruses also affect livestock, causing diseases such as Rift Valley Fever, which can devastate agricultural economies. Understanding bunyavirus biology, transmission, and evolution is therefore crucial for developing effective diagnostic tools, vaccines, and therapeutic interventions.

This research project will use CRISPR-Cas9 genome–wide screening approaches to identify host factors involved in the life cycle of recently identified novel bunyaviruses, followed by cutting edge molecular and cellular techniques to interrogate their life cycle. The Stacey and Barr groups are based in newly refurbished lab space, are well-funded and situated in close proximity to core research infrastructure (bioimaging, flow cytometry, proteomics suites) and a large community of other virologists. Our people centric approach ensures that all graduate students in the group are appropriately mentored, have the opportunity to grow as scientists, to present their data to colleagues, to publish appropriate research and to be guided to the next stage of their career. We are collaborative and work with scientists, clinicians and industrialists in Leeds and beyond.

Eligibility

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence that their English language is sufficient to meet the specific demands of their study. The Faculty of Biological Sciences minimum requirements in IELTS and TOEFL tests are:

• British Council IELTS - score of 6.0 overall, with no element less than 5.5
• Internet based TOEFL - overall score of 80 with not less than 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 19 in writing. Tests must be taken at a test centre.

How to apply

To apply for this project applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.

• a full academic CV
• degree certificate and transcripts of marks
• Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)
• Evidence of funding

To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;

• Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
• Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert

For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:

e: fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs.