Unravelling the molecular mechanisms for East Coast Fever

East Coast fever (ECF), caused by Theileria pava, is a lethal tick-borne disease in sub-Saharan Africa estimated to kill 1 million cattle per year. Current control strategies rely on acaricides, chemotherapy and, live vaccines – none of which are sustainable and completely effective[1]. ECF is characterized by a clonal proliferation of the T. pava infected lymphocytes (lymphoblast), and the transfer of the parasite to each daughter lymphoblast during cell division[2]. Although T. pava can infect most blood mononuclear cells, clonal proliferation and chronic infection occurs almost exclusively in T and B cells. Understanding, in molecular detail both the parasite and host factors that control parasite infectivity and the proliferation of infected host cells will provide insight into key aspects of host-parasite interaction that can be exploited for therapy. This project will use a bovine genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screen available in Roslin, and dual-high throughput ribosome profiling[3] to:
1) Identify and characterize the host genes that are essential for parasite invasion and lymphocyte proliferation.
2) Identify and quantify the parasite and host genes that are expressed and translated into proteins in infected monocytes, T and B cells.

We will then use this information to form testable hypotheses on the molecular mechanisms of ECF and identify druggable targets that can be exploited in therapy and/or vaccine development.
Through this project, the student should acquire a solid understanding of molecular biology, immunology, parasitology, and computational biology. He/she will become proficient in diverse techniques including derivation, culture, and differentiation of mammalian primary cells, western blotting, ribosome profiling, genome editing, and management and manipulation of large genomic datasets. The student will also acquire skills in science communication, writing and project management. He/she will have access to the state of the art facilities and resources available at the Roslin Institute and the College of Medicine and Veterinary Vedicine.

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=831

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