Whole genome sequencing of pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains of Mycoplasma

Mycoplasma are ‘genome-reduced’ pathogens. These organisms have developed sophisticated mechanisms to colonise and invade host cells, form biofilms and evade immune detection. They are extremely successful pathogens found in humans agriculturally-important plants, animals and insects where they often establish a chronic disease state.

We are seeking candidates that wish to be form part of a larger group undertaking studies to understand how M. hyopneumoniae colonises and infects epithelial cells in the respiratory tract of pigs.

Whole genome sequencing of pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains of hyopneumoniae show few apparent differences between strains. There are, however, a high number of different mod genes, whose gene expression seems to be controlled via phase variable regulons aka ‘phasevarions’. However, standard methods of genome analysis do not provide information on DNA methylation and the epigenetic changes that are central to shaping the virulence profiles of organisms with phasevarions. This project aims to: 1) undertake whole genome sequencing of mycoplasma strains using the PacBio system which provides information on DNA methylation patterns; 2) screen our M. hyopneumoniae transposon mutant library with the aim of determining how on/off switching of individual mod genes effects these methylation patterns; and 3) identify gene subsets under control of each copy of mod.

Additional supervision will be provided by Drs Daniel Bogema and Cheryl Jenkins (DPI)

Desirable skills and qualifications:
Molecular biology, sequence analysis, bioinformatics
Driving licence
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Ausgem represents a strategic alliance and collaborative partnership initiated between the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries’ Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI) and the ithree institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) to provide a unique set of translational skills, knowledge and facilities enabling high throughput sequence analysis of a range of pathogen genomes leading to an improved understanding of the disease process and innovative ways to mitigate the risks associated with a range of infectious diseases.

Ausgem’s research is underpinned by the One Health concept that recognises that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment.
Funding Notes
Successful AU and NZ students will be directly funded. Stipend is available for international students on a competitive basis but international student fees still apply.

The successful candidates will be awarded $26,682 per annum over 3.5 years.
Applicants are required to have the equivalent of a BSc Honours or Masters by Research degree.

These are Ausgem-funded research projects.