Dr V Sancho-Shimizu
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
We are looking for a doctoral student to investigate the role of genetics in a cohort of paediatric invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) patients. The successful candidate will join Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu, (Virology and Paediatrics, Imperial College London) and Prof Michael Levin in an exciting project at St Mary’s Medical School, Imperial College London.
Identifying Mendelian single gene defects of invasive meningococcal disease IMD is a rare disease affecting children and young adults due to infection with Neisseria meningitidis. Although most people have been exposed to N. meningitidis, the majority do not develop IMD, suggesting that those that succumb to invasive disease may possess an underlying genetic susceptibility. The notion of a genetic contribution to disease manifestation is also supported by the finding that patients with congenital complement deficiencies or properdin deficiency are susceptible to recurrent IMD. Notably, children suffering from IMD are otherwise healthy pointing to the likelihood that they harbor an unidentified form of primary immunodeficiency with a specific selective susceptibility to meningococcal disease.
The primary goal of the project is to identify single gene disorders of immunity that underlie susceptibly and severity of childhood IMD. We have carried out whole exome sequencing and identified novel candidate genes involved in IMD. Complete functional validation of these findings, including sequence and molecular validation specific to the gene, will be carried out in order to assess its role in anti-meningococcal response.
Funding Notes
You should have a Bachelor’s degree ideally in human molecular genetics, infectious diseases, or immunology, and be familiar with molecular biology techniques including ELISA, PCR, western blotting, cloning; experience in tissue culture.
Applicants must also meet Imperial College’s English language requirements – further details can be found at http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/registry/admissions/pgenglish
The studentship includes a stipend for 3 years plus fees at the rate for home and EU students. The position is available from 1 September 2015. Overseas students should be able to demonstrate adequate financial support to cover the difference between the home/EU fee and the overseas fee.