B cells: key players in immunity to the intestinal nematode parasite Trichuris muris?

Intestinal parasitic worm infections impose an enormous economic burden on society globally. Indeed the World Health Organisation has shown that parasitic worm infection is one of the most significant factors that traps developing countries into poverty. No effective vaccines exist to prevent infection of humans with gut-dwelling parasitic worms.

The project investigates mechanisms of resistance to the intestinal parasitic worm Trichuris muris. Understanding how protective immunity is generated underpins vaccine development.

Studies exploring the role of B cells in immunity to T. muris have concluded that antibody is not essential for worm expulsion. However recent data from our lab has revealed that B cells play an important regulatory role, being required for the generation of protective Th2 responses. The project will explore the mechanisms by which B cells enable Th2 responses and whether they play a similar role in the context of vaccine-induced immunity.

The project uses transgenic approaches, combined with a variety of contemporary immunological methodologies including cell and tissue culture, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, gene expression analyses and immunoassays.

The project embraces a broad range of contemporary methodologies relevant to Immunology and Parasitology. The successful candidate will become experienced in:
• Cellular immunology
• Flow cytometry
• Cytokine bead array
• ELISA
• Immunohistochemistry
• Molecular biology (qPCR)
• Transgenic mice
• In vivo skills

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area / subject. Candidates with experience in Immunology or with an interest in Immunology are encouraged to apply.