Understanding the rules of species evolution is a fundamental question in biology. The emergence, spread and demise of harmful organisms, which can cause pandemics, is particularly important. You will focus on the bacterial species Vibrio cholerae. Recent advances in phylogenetics, model systems, and molecular tools, provide a timely opportunity to substantially progress our understanding. Your goal is to determine how evolution drives species development and pandemic potential. You will take a multi-level approach encompassing global species genetics, model ecosystems, and molecular mechanisms.
Currently, we cannot explain how the strain causing the current cholera pandemic arose, let alone predict why, where or when the next one might arise. The “success” of V. cholerae depends on its ability to adapt to different surroundings. Normally, the bacterium resides in aquatic environments and persists by forming biofilms on the chitinous surfaces of plankton and shellfish. These biofilms are rapidly disassembled on ingestion by a human or aquatic host. Following host colonisation, disease is caused by the extrusion of toxins (1). Hence, to understand what is special about the “pandemic” strain, it is essential to understand how the bacterium is able to switch between lifestyles. Recent work has generated a wealth of V. cholerae genome sequences (>10,000) from decades of outbreaks associated with the current worldwide pandemic (2,3). Our laboratory is using these data to try and understand key genetic changes that influence lifestyle choice and pandemic potential. Our work involves the application of bacterial genomics, molecular biology, and host organism colonisation models, to study lifestyle changes (4,5).
For more information on Professor Grainger’s lab and research please visit: http://graingerlab.com/
You are also advised to contact Professor Grainger directly to discuss your application prior to submission.
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To find out more about studying for a PhD at the University of Birmingham, including full details of the research undertaken in each school, the funding opportunities for each subject, and guidance on making your application, you can now order your copy of the new Doctoral Research Prospectus, at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/drp.aspx
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This project can be funded by the BBSRC via the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP, available to all students) or by the Darwin Trust of Edinburgh (specifically to support overseas students). Deadlines: Jan 4th 2024 (for MIBTP) and Jan 7th 2024 (for Darwin Trust).
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