The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted the need to develop better techniques capable of improving detection of viral infections (by being both faster and more sensitive) is of upmost importance. The list of viruses that cause serious disease is long and is likely to become longer as new highly infective and/or deadly viruses emerge or re-emerge.
Currently the expertise, time and specialized equipment needed to test samples of potentially infected individuals means there can be a significant delay between infection and treatment This is particularly so in remote regions, and developing countries where diagnosis becomes extremely challenging, if not impossible. Typically, extraction of viral DNA or RNA followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification is required to determine if an individual carries a viral infection. This process can take from several hours to days depending on the setting. Additionally, due to the need for controlled temperature profiles, the equipment needed to successfully run PCR is costly and therefore prohibitive in those countries most in need.
This project aims to develop a novel point of care device that, in a cheap and fast fashion, is able to detect viral infections. Typically such devices rely on anti-body conjugation in an ELISA system. Whilst this approach has proved useful the need to produce a large range of suitable antibodies and the propensity for false-positives has limited its use. The Jones Lab has developed a range of materials capable of releasing viral DNA (virucidal materials). In this project it is this released viral DNA that will be used for detection.
The student will synthesis a range of viral DNA-releasing (virucidal) materials as well as the necessary DNA-detection molecules/materials. They will test a range of detection approaches, which will ultimately allow them to develop a viral point of care detection device. Skills obtained will be device fabrication, biocompatible virucide synthesis, cell and virus culture and manipulation and associated training in techniques such as gel permeation chromatography (GPC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopy. It may also be necessary for the student to construct a prototype device that incorporates all components into one easy to use system.
Due to the multidisciplinary nature of this project, students from a variety of backgrounds are welcomed but will be expected to learn about not only device fabrication but DNA-conjugates and virucidal material synthesis as well as handling, and testing of viral samples.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants must have obtained, or be about to obtain, at least an upper second class honours degree or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science, engineering or technology.
UK applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Principal Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible. International applicants (including EU nationals) must ensure they meet the academic eligibility criteria (including English Language) as outlined before contacting potential supervisors to express an interest in their project. Eligibility can be checked via the University Country Specific information page (https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/).
Some restrictions apply to applicants from certain Asian countries. In general, students from Europe, the Americas, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Korea and Japan are eligible to apply for the programme. Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications from south-east Asian countries such as Singapore, China and Malaysia.
If your country is not listed you must contact the Doctoral Academy Admissions Team providing a detailed CV (to include academic qualifications – stating degree classification(s) and dates awarded) and relevant transcripts.
Following the review of your qualifications and with support from potential supervisor(s), you will be informed whether you can submit a formal online application.
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/
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