Before they can cause disease, bacteria need to colonise their hosts. To do so they must establish a niche among the resident microbiota. Staphylococcus aureus secretes protein toxins using a Type VII secretion system that kill competitor bacteria. The aim of this project is to characterise a novel family of protein toxins that is secreted by the S. aureus Type VII protein secretion system. The project will involve defining the enzymatic activity and cellular targets of the toxins, and identifying neutralising immunity proteins that protect the host strain from self-intoxication. One or more of the toxins will be purified in complex with their immunity protein for structural analysis. A zebra fish embryo colonisation model will be used to examine the role of the secreted protein toxins and their immunity proteins in interbacterial competition.
This project will provide training in a range of complementary techniques, including microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, protein expression and purification, and structural biology.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications should be made by emailing [Email Address Removed] with:
· a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees);
· a covering letter – clearly stating your first choice project, and optionally 2nd ranked project, as well as including whatever additional information you feel is pertinent to your application; you may wish to indicate, for example, why you are particularly interested in the selected project(s) and at the selected University;
· copies of your relevant undergraduate degree transcripts and certificates;
· a copy of your passport (photo page).
A GUIDE TO THE FORMAT REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE AT https://www.nld-dtp.org.uk/how-apply. Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.
In addition to the above items, please email a completed copy of the Additional Details Form (as a Word document) to [Email Address Removed]. A blank copy of this form can be found at: https://www.nld-dtp.org.uk/how-apply.
Informal enquiries may be made to [Email Address Removed]. The closing date for applications is 10th January 2022 at 5.00pm (UK time).
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