Engineering resistance to swine influenza

Influenza A viruses are highly infectious respiratory pathogens that can infect many species, with pigs susceptible to infection with both avian and human influenza viruses giving them the reputation of being a ‘mixing vessel’ for novel reassortant influenza viruses. As such, pigs are a key component of the zoonotic impact of influenza. The often cited Spanish flu epidemic of 1918 which resulted in more deaths than WW1 is believed to be a swine influenza. It is estimated that anywhere from 50 to 100 million people were killed worldwide. The risk is ever present, with deaths resulting from appearance of swine influenza in the Maldives in 2017.

This project will focus on the host involved in regulating influenza virus host-cell entry and replication. It will involve hands-on experience in the design and testing of CRISPR reagents, the validation of these reagents cell culture in vitro enabling acquisition of skills in mammalian virology, plus gaining expertise with respect to the logistics and practicalities of working with genetically engineered pigs.

The successful student will be based at The Roslin Institute and registered at the University of Edinburgh. The studentship is a BBSRC-CASE in association with the livestock breeding company Genus plc and offers the opportunity for the student to gain experience in both the academic and commercial sectors.

Disease remains the single biggest burden on livestock agriculture. Influenza outbreaks in pigs are common and cause significant economic losses to the industry, primarily by causing stunting and extended time to market. This disease is estimated to cost the UK meat industry nearly £100 million every year; with an equally huge ‘cost’ on animal welfare within infected populations. This project aims to use cutting-edge CRISPR-cas9 technology to engineer resistance into the pig genome.

Application procedures
Applications including a statement of interest and full CV with names and addresses (including email addresses) of two academic referees, should be emailed to [Email Address Removed].
When applying for the studentship please state clearly the title of the studentship and the supervisor/s in your covering letter.

All applicants should also apply through the University’s on-line application system for September 2018 entry via http://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/degrees/index.php?r=site/view&id=829

Applicants for the Principal’s career development studentship must also complete the specific on-line application form.

Applicants for an Enlightenment Scholarship must also complete the specific on-line application form.
ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE CLOSING DATE 16th January 2018