MSc by Research: Conserved function of gut microbiome in mouse, fruit fly and Caenorhabditis elegans

About the Project

Gut microbiome is the community of microbes living together in the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. They provide specific functions to the animal host such as digestion of cellulose and protection from invading pathogens. Large scale sequencing analyses have led to identification of several bacteria, some archaea and fungi in various animals including humans. It is not clear if various microbes in the microbiota of a specific animal are similar or the combined metabolic output of microbiota in various animals is similar. This can be examined by studying secondary metabolites produced by the microbiotas of different animals. In this MRes research project, we will identify volatiles chemicals (odours) produced by microbiota of a nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans), a fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) and mice by Gas Chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). This will allow us to determine if their microbiota produces unique or overlapping odours. Further, we will identify microorganisms in the gut of C. elegans and Drosophila melanogaster, and in faeces of mice by metagenomics.

The student will acquire training in microbiology, C. elegans and fruit fly maintenance, GC-MS analysis of individual bacteria and complex samples such as mouse faeces. The student will be provided additional training in scientific writing, statistics and data management. The student will also receive mentoring support during career transition.

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

Please see our website for further details on the programme and how to apply:

Life Sciences MSc by Research MSc by Research (Postgraduate) : Study : University of Dundee