Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global concern to those who treat infection across healthcare and agricultural sectors. A recent study found that approximately 39% of diagnosed infections contained bacteria that were resistant to last-resort antibiotics1. It is of critical importance to reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and detect AMR strains as early as possible.
Volatile organic compounds are produced by bacterial metabolism and have shown to distinguish between species. This is especially important in the current climate, where a rapid test can rule-out antibiotic use without delaying treatment for polymicrobial infections which include fungal and viral pathogens.
In our lab, we have developed non-invasive and non-destructive methods to profile bacterial volatiles in complex matrices and in co-culture2,3. Recently, several studies have investigated volatile metabolite profiling for antimicrobial resistance screening4. This project will focus on applying a systems biology approach to profile volatile metabolites from resistant pathogen strains of critical importance in AMR detection including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae and link discovered microbial volatiles to changes in the proteome and transcriptome. These pathogens are known to have multidrug-resistant strains some of which the World Health Organization has designated as Critical Priority in combatting AMR e.g. Carbapenemase-producing strains.
After the characterisation and functional analysis of mVOCs of interest, a rapid high-throughput method will be developed in collaboration with Markes International, using in vitro culture media samples. The successful candidate will gain experience working in an industry setting, train in cutting-edge instrumentation for volatile analysis, and apply their knowledge to developing a rapid and non-invasive and non-destructive diagnostic method.
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.
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
Applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Primary Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible.
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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