About the Project
Among the most important scientific achievements in history has been the discovery and development of antibiotics. Unfortunately, antimicrobials currently used in the healthcare system are losing the battle in the fight against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Thus there is an unmet need for strategic development of novel antimicrobials to address this burgeoning global health challenge. One strategy that warrants special attention as a unique method for identifying new antimicrobials is drug repurposing. Several approved drugs have been successfully repurposed as anti-infective agents especially to treat parasitic and protozoal diseases. However, to date, not a single drug has been successfully repurposed for use as an antibacterial.
A PhD graduate research position on an NIH funded antimicrobial drug discovery project at Purdue University is available with Dr. Mohamed Seleem’s group https://vet.purdue.edu/directory/person.php?id=91. This project focuses on repurposing non antimicrobial drugs and clinical molecules. Repurposing drugs, with well-characterized toxicology and pharmacology, to find new applications outside the scope of the original medical indication is a novel way to reduce both the time and cost associated with antimicrobial innovation. Our overall goal in this project is to further validate one non-antimicrobial approved drug, auranofin, and one clinical molecule, ebselen, as potential treatments for superficial, systemic and intestinal infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, including MRSA and Clostridium difficile. Collectively, this study provides valuable evidence that these drugs have significant promise to be repurposed as a novel antibacterial agent and should move forward to clinical trial.
The group takes a multidisciplinary approach, employing drug discovery, bacterial genetics, cell biology, molecular microbiology, structural biology, molecular diagnostics, drug delivery, nanoparticles, pharmacokinetic, and animal models. You can read more about recent publications for this particular project at https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohamed_Seleem3.
Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA, is an internationally recognized research and teaching institution renowned for its academic excellence, world-class faculty, and commitment to cultivating a diverse intellectual community. Purdue University is one of the leading universities for higher education and graduate programs in the world. Purdue’s graduate programs have been ranked among the top 10 by U.S. News.
The assistantship provides monthly stipend and payment of tuition fees. We are looking for highly motivated candidates. Students with previous research experience or a Master’s degree are strongly encouraged to apply. TOEFL and GRE are required. Details of the requirements for the application process are available at the CPB Department website https://vet.purdue.edu/cpb/graduate-programs.php
Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
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