Science jobs from The University of Nottingham: job description
Molecular dissection of E. coli O157:H7 interaction with its host cell
E. coli O157:H7 is an enteric pathogen that presents a significant risk to human health. Potential strategies for the treatment of E. coli O157 infections in humans or the reduction of colonisation of the organism within the gut of asymptomatic animals include passive or active immunization against bacterial surface proteins. The research will define specific regions of E. coli O157 proteins that are vital for bacterial-host cell interaction and will characterise their use as potential peptide-vaccines to disrupt each of the main stages of E. coli O157 colonisation of the gut; namely, diffuse adherence, secretion of effector molecules and intimate attachment.
Techniques within the study will primarily be mammalian cell culture, in vitro organ culture models, antibody phage-display technology and recombinant protein production. The successful student will carry out research training at both the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science at the University of Nottingham (Sutton Bonington campus) and the Veterinary Laboratories Agency at Weybridge, Surrey.
This is an innovative collaborative initiative and a great opportunity to work at the forefront of veterinary research in a supportive and exciting environment. Project Supervisors are: Dr Kevin Gough (School of Veterinary Medicine & Science, The University of Nottingham), Dr Roberto La Ragione and Professor Martin Woodward (both Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, Surrey).
Entry criteria are a 2:1 or 1st class degree in a relevant discipline, or a first or second class degree along with a Masters degree.
This studentship is available for a period of three years from September 2009 and provides a tax-free stipend of £15,750 per annum. Due to funding restrictions, this studentship only provides funding for students from the UK/EU.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr K Gough, tel: 0115 951 6272, Email: Kevin.Gough@Nottingham.ac.uk or c/o Chris Holland, Email: Chris.Holland@Nottingham.ac.uk.
Applications (preferably by Email), with a detailed CV and the names and addresses of two academic referees, should be sent to Helena Percival, Admissions Officer, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, College Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD. Email: postgrad-vet@Nottingham.ac.uk.
Don’t forget to mention Nature jobs when applying.
- Expires:
- March 20, 2009
