Identification and functional characterisation of host proteins that interact with non-structural proteins of porcine reproductive and respiratory and syndrome virus (PRRSV)

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is the most important infectious disease affecting the global pig industry. PRRS is a major threat to animal welfare and food security. In the USA alone, losses are estimated to exceed US$600 million per annum. The emergence of highly pathogenic strains and the failure of current live attenuated PRRS virus (PRRSV) vaccines to provide broad cross-protection pose significant challenges to disease control world-wide and improved vaccines are urgently required. Key to the success of the PRRSV is its ability to evade the host immune responses.

This involves specialised proteins encoded by the virus targeting specific host molecules involved in defence pathways. An improved understanding of the mechanisms used by the virus to evade host immune responses will contribute to the production of improved live attenuated vaccines with defined phenotypes. To facilitate this we propose to better characterise the functions of non-structural proteins made by the virus through identification of the host proteins with which they interact. We plan to use state-of-the-art techniques, such as quantitative label-free proteomics, that allow us to map the interactions viral proteins can have with the host, and work out why these are important.

The student will be based at The Pirbright Institute and registered with the University of Liverpool, with visits to the university to meet with their supervisor and undertake training as required. The University of Liverpool Institute of Infection & Global Health is fully committed to promoting gender equality in all activities. In recruitment we emphasise the supportive nature of the working environment and the flexible family support that the University provides. The Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Athena SWAN principles are embedded in its activities and strategic initiatives.