Complex carbohydrates are the primary nutrient source for the human gut microbiota (HGM), a vast microbial community essential to human health and physiology. Host glycans represent a constant source of complex carbohydrates and their metabolism exerts a continuous effect on both the host and the HGM. The metabolism of the sulfated glycans, such as the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) class of host glycans is conserved in Bacteroides, a bacterial species that are dominant members of the HGM, and generates a unique secondary metabolite (excreted small molecules) profile, enriched in short chain fatty acids, acetate and propionate, as well as the neurotransmitter g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), all of which can modulate colonic epithelial cell (colonocytes, cells lining the intestine) behaviour, and potentially the host, through the emerging gut-brain axis; for example, in the model organism, C. elegans, gut bacteria produce a hormone that results in selection bias toward a particular food source and increases the fitness of both the host and gut bacteria. It has also been suggested that increased bacteroides species correlate with depression in humans, potentially through increases in the GABA neurotransmitter. Through studying the secondary metabolites produced from host GAG metabolism by the HGM, and the mechanisms which underpin it, we aim to begin to shed light on just how the HGM influences host physiology and behaviour.
The studentship should be commenced before the end of 2022.
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 Friday 8th July 2022 at 12noon (UK time).
Note on English language requirements for international applicants: All students applying to the University of Liverpool must demonstrate that they are competent in the use of the English language and satisfy the University’s requirements. Please see this page for more details on specific requirements: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/international/apply/english-language/.
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