How do mosquitoes survive a blood meal? Molecular Characterisation of Anopheles gambiae Heme Oxygenase

Project Summary:

Malaria is transmitted by the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The ability of A. gambiae to transmit malaria is strictly related to blood feeding, however, remarkably little is known about heme degradation yet it must be vital for the blood-sucker to survive. The simple aims of this project are to identify and functionally characterise the genes involved, focussing initially on the heme–oxygenase system. The challenge is to understand how heme detoxification works and if it can be exploited for malaria control..

Start date: 1st OCTOBER 2012

Skills: biochemistry and molecular biology experience

Working in a truly multidisciplinary environment, this project requires a student with a Biological, Biophysical or Chemical background with the vision and drive to harness available state-of-the art tools across a range of molecular biological, biochemical and biophysical disciplines.

Entry Requirements:

Educational certificates from students that have obtained, or are expected to obtain, a First Class Honours or Upper Second Class Honours degree or international equivalent, or a Masters degree (or international equivalent) in an appropriate subject.
Two academic reference letters in support of your application
Evidence of English language ability

For further information, please contact the supervisor directly;
Supervisor
Primary Supervisor: Dr Mark Paine