Chrono-Vac: Harnessing the chronobiology of skin dendritic cells to boost vaccine efficacy

Project Description:

How an individual responds to a vaccine can depend on what time of day that individual was vaccinated. This is evident across a number of vaccines for infectious disease including the COVID-19 vaccines. This is somehow due to circadian clocks within immune cells, but exactly how this is happening is still unclear. We have data to show that the circadian clock within dendritic cells is important for this time of day vaccine effect and that the metabolism of the DC is critical. In this project we will utilise a range of assays, including multiparametric flow cytometry, RNA sequencing and high resolution microscopy to understand the mechanistic basis of this circadian effect and explore cutting edge vaccine delivery technologies such as microneedle patches in order to harness this circadian effect to boost vaccine efficacy.

Requirements:

• Upper Second Class (2.1) honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant biological or biomedical science degree, such as Immunology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, Microbiology, Genetics or Pharmacology.
• Some wet or dry lab experience is preferred, however training will be provided across all techniques required in this project.

How do I apply:

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full: https://forms.office.com/r/aNMEC3sccF

-Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.

-Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.

-At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit, CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation.

- Only their referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference.

Applications must include:

(i) a completed application form

(ii) English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements.

Deadline: All applications must be made online by 07 June 2022 (GMT)

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed.

Further information on the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland can be found here: https://www.rcsi.com/

Further information about the Curtis Clock Lab can be found here www.curtisclocklab.com