Elucidating the interaction of influenza A virus mRNA with host trafficking and translation machinery during the viral replication cycle

We have an exciting opportunity in the lab for a hard-working PhD candidate to contribute to an EU-funded project from the European Research Council investigating the role of RNA regulation in influenza virus infection.

Influenza A virus is a highly relevant virus to human health with clear pandemic potential. Our research focuses on influenza A virus RNA and encompasses the regulation of both positive strand mRNA and negative strand vRNA by processes including RNA-binding proteins, secondary structure and RNA modifications. We aim to better understand the regulatory environment of viral RNA, and also determine if these regulatory mechanisms are conserved in cells from other influenza-relevant animals including chickens and pigs.

The successful applicant will be fully immersed in all aspects of the research within our team, but with a primary focus on influenza mRNA regulation, that includes trafficking and translation of unspliced mRNAs. How these unspliced mRNAs are efficiently processed by the cell, through trafficking, export and translation is still unclear. We aim to use various molecular techniques, as well as next-generation sequencing and mass-spectrometry, to try and uncover these fundamental aspects of viral replication and we are keen to have a highly motivated and interested PhD candidate lead this work in our lab.

 Please feel free to contact a member of the lab if you would like to discuss the project further.

Funding eligibility: ROI (and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled) status may be eligible for funding. Please review the DfE T&C’s. 

English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.