Correlating Microbial Diversity and Pathogen characteristics in Paediatric & adult cystic fibrosis

Globally, Ireland has the highest prevalence of cystic fibrosis. Variations in microbial diversity in patient airways appear at least partially responsible for deterioration of pulmonary function. Culture-independent techniques enable study of the lung microbiome, and have determined that the lower respiratory tract (previously considered sterile) is microbiologically distinct from upper airways. This project will employ advanced sequencing techniques to explore variation in the lower lung lung microbiome associated with cystic fibrosis and investigate how the lower lung microbiome of paediatric patients is influenced by antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatments. Applicants should have a minimum of first or upper second class honours degree in Biomedical Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a closely related subject.

Start date: September 2018.