Modelling individuality of bacterial stress responses (BARANYIF16FDTP1)

Transmission of bacterial pathogens from zoonotic reservoirs, via the food chain into the human population is dependent on the ability of the pathogen to sense its changing environment and adapt in a manner that maximises survival. Despite efforts by food manufacturers to create environments in which pathogens cannot survive in the food chain, an estimated 100 thousand cases of Salmonella are reported in the EU each year resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality. Salmonella Typhimurium, which causes gastroenteritis, escapes the immune system of humans by diversification of its phenotypes. Does the same happen during food processing?

To answer this question, a better understanding and quantitative models of subpopulations of resistant food-borne pathogens emerging from homogeneous populations when subjected to stress are required. These could lead not only to improvements in food safety but also a better understanding of systems akin to those which induce antibiotic resistance.

Part of the work would consist of identifying regulatory and metabolic mechanisms underlying bi-stable systems in silico. Data mining would be carried out using state of the art network analysis of data in the literature. Molecular biology experiments will also be devised and implemented to check hypotheses about identified systems. The work could result in a novel approach for predictive modelling.

This is an opportunity for the candidate to learn systems biology in a multidisciplinary international environment. The studentship is hosted by the Computational Microbiology Research Group at the Institute of Food Research (http://comicro.ifr.ac.uk), which is led by Professor József Baranyi (www.ifr.ac.uk/research/scientists/jozsef-baranyi), in collaboration with the research group of Rob Kingsley (http://www.ifr.ac.uk/research/scientists/rob-kingsley).

The ideal candidate is a biologist / biochemist / bioengineer with experience of, or proven interest in, mathematical modelling or a mathematician/physicist who isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

References:
http://aem.asm.org/content/81/9/3228
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0740002014001361

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition. Candidates will be interviewed on either the 16th or 17th March 2016.

The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three month professional internship (PIPS) during their study. The internship offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website: www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk