The MSc by Research programme at the University of Aberdeen is for students interested in a research-intensive master's degree. It is designed specifically to enhance your skills for a PhD or research career. If you have your own ideas for a research project in this area, we would love to hear from you! Please reach out to one of the project supervisors above to discuss your ideas.
You can find further information about our academic requirements and programme structure here.
The past two decades have shown huge advances in our understanding of the composition of the gut microbiota. Associations have been made between gut microbiota composition and diversity in many non-communicable diseases ranging from obesity to neurological conditions. Far fewer publications focus on the activity of this important microbial community in situ, and in-vitro studies are complicated by the obligately anaerobic nature of many of the microbes. We have learnt that the individual microbial components co-exist in a complex mutually beneficial ecosystem that is essential for maintaining the health of the mammalian host.
The composition (and function) of the gut microbiota depends on various external factors including diet, other microbial components and of course the host. Communication between microbes is important for establishing the microbial community and communication with the host is important in establishing an appropriate immune response and intestinal barrier.
The cross-talk between the gut microbiota and the host epithelium has been recognized as an important feature to maintain and enhance gut health. The maintenance of the intestinal epithelial barrier integrity is crucial for sustaining host homeostasis. Preserving functions such as active and selective nutrient absorption, impermeability, and acting as a physical barrier for microorganisms and microbial products, the intestinal epithelial cell layer has paramount importance for the host health.
Studying the interactions between microbes and epithelial host cells has thus far been limited to aerotolerant microbes which are easily introduced into routine host-cell culture. However, the vast majority of the human gut microbiota comprises strict anaerobes which are highly sensitive to oxygen exposure. To study the cross-talk between gut microbes and host cells, we will use in-vitro models of the human gut epithelial layer to study the interactions of important members of the gut microbiota, selected from our unique anaerobic bacteria culture collection, with host cells.
The project has three key aims:
- Assess a set of selected gut microbes for their ability to alter intestinal barrier function and repair using an in-vitro host cell model.
- Compare the effects of different bacterial growth fractions and microbial metabolites on barrier function and repair.
- Determine the impact of different microbial fractions on host cell gene expression of inflammatory markers.
Techniques involved:
The project will involve in-depth training in mammalian host cell culture, anaerobic microbiology and host-microbe interaction studies. A range of assays will be used to assess responses of host and bacterial cells to co-culture. Intestinal barrier function and barrier repair assays will be used. Bacterial metabolites (short chain fatty acids) will be assessed using gas chromatography.
Hypothesis:
Some members of the human gut microbiota will have specific benefits to the host gut by improving barrier function.
Project outputs:
Identify key beneficial strains of gut bacteria which are capable of improving barrier function and thus are targets for further investigation and potential development as biotherapeutics.
---------------------------------
Applicants to this project should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.
We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to having a diverse, inclusive team.
Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Dr Silvia Gratz (s.gratz@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.
---------------------------------
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Please note: This is a self-funded opportunity.
- Prospective students should contact the lead supervisor (via the email address listed above) to discuss the research project and complete a proposal form prior to / or shortly after applying.
- Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
- You should apply for Medical Sciences (MSc) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
- Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and the project title on the application form. If this is not included, your application may not be considered for the project.
- Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level.
- Your application must include: a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
- If you are still undertaking your undergraduate degree, it is helpful to the selection panel if you could provide documentation showing your grades to date (this can be a screenshot from an online portal).
- Please note: Project supervisors will not respond to requests for funding assistance.
- If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at pgrs-admissions@abdn.ac.uk