Schistosomiasis is an infection caused by a parasitic blood flook, Schistosoma. Approximately 260 million people are estimated to carry the infection, mainly concentrated in low income countries, causing high levels of morbidity and mortality. Current treatment uses the drug praziquantel but it does not prevent reinfection, and there are concerns about the rise in resistance. Vaccination offers an attractive alternative strategy to disease control; however, no vaccine is in clinical use for any human worm infection. Several trials, in experimental animals and humans, have identified candidate antigens for inclusion in a vaccine. In this project, we will apply a novel technology based on engineering of virus-like particles (VLPs). VLPs are assemblies of viral proteins which are not infective, but are effective in eliciting robust immunogenic responses. Our platform offers a flexible system for combining multiple epitopes into a single vaccine. The project will employ computational, structural and protein engineering principles to produce a stable, cheap vaccine for use in low-income countries. Antigens will be designed using computational tools which will optimize the preservation of B- and T-cell epitopes. They will then be expressed, purified and incorporated into VLP-based assemblies, before testing in a mouse infection model. This multidisciplinary project would suit an ambitious, versatile graduate with a background in Chemistry, Biochemistry or the molecular biosciences who is keen to engage with novel, cutting edge methods aimed at addressing complex challenges in vaccine development, where other approaches have not fully succeeded.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science, engineering or technology.
Applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Primary Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible.
How To Apply
To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form - full details on how to apply can be found on the BBSRC DTP website www.manchester.ac.uk/bbsrcdtpstudentships
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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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