Staphylococcus aureus is a major human and animal pathogen responsible for extensive human morbidity and economic losses on a global scale. The capacity to jump into distinct host-species leading to the emergence of new pathogenic clones is a feature of S. aureus and it is considered a model multi-host pathogen (Richardson et al, 2018). However, our understanding of the adaptive mechanisms associated with successful transition to a new host-species are limited. Previously, we have explored the early stages of a host jump event in vivo revealing signatures of host-adaptation and enhanced fitness (Bacigalupe et al, 2019). Here we will employ an experimental evolutionary approach to investigate how S. aureus adapts to human and livestock hosts using appropriate models of infection in vitro and ex vivo. Our previous research has identified strain-dependent differences in the evolvability when adapting to a new host species (Bacigalupe et al, 2019). We will examine this phenomenon using both host-restricted and multi-host clones associated with human and livestock diseases. Clones will be passaged In vitro in experimental infection systems such as organoids that simulate human, bovine and avian host-species to select for strains with enhanced growth fitness. Comparative genome sequencing and high-throughput phenotyping will identify genetic and functional traits associated with host-adaptation. Similarly, S. aureus strains previously passaged in an in vivo model of host-switching (Bacigalupe et al, 2019) will be examined to understand the mechanisms underpinning the observed enhanced fitness. Overall, the study will provide evolutionary and mechanistic insights into the capacity of some bacterial pathogens to expand into new host-species. Further, the findings may point to novel therapeutic targets for control of infection.
A webinar will be held on Tuesday 14th December at 13.00hrs (UK time) to assist you in the application process and tell you a little more about studying for a PhD with us. It will also give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. If interested in joining us please send your name and email address to [Email Address Removed] by Friday 10th December and we will send you a link to the on line meeting
ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE CLOSING DATE 5th JANUARY 2022
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