Neutrophils in RSV bronchiolitis: Exploring whether neutrophil function changes in response to RSV, in order to gain understanding of what role neutrophils play during severe infection

A 3-year PhD Studentship is available within the Respiratory, Critical Care and Anaesthesia Section, UCL Institute of Child Health under the supervision of Professor Ros Smyth, Dr Claire Smith, and Dr Jenny Herbert.

The purpose of the proposed investigation:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of respiratory infections in children under the age of 5. The majority of children infected present with upper respiratory tract symptoms and mild wheeze, followed by rapid recovery. However, in a proportion of these children RSV infection results in inflammation of the lung, which can lead to hospitalisation or death. One of the major types of white blood cells, the neutrophil, is found in large numbers in the airways of the lungs of children with severe RSV bronchiolitis. It is not known whether this influx of neutrophils and inflammatory response produced is appropriate and necessary to clear the RSV infection or whether it is excessive and damaging to the lung tissue. It has been shown that RSV targets epithelial cells in the human airway to infect the lung. A model has been developed in the lab where these airway epithelial cells can be infected with RSV and co-cultured with neutrophils. In this way it is possible to replicate the conditions of an RSV infected airway within a laboratory environment.
Using this model we can study the interaction between the neutrophil and RSV infected epithelial cell. This project will examine the interaction of neutrophils with RSV alone and with airway epithelial cells that have been infected with RSV, specifically looking at whether neutrophil function changes in response to RSV. This will allow a better understanding of what role neutrophils play during severe infection. Identifying whether the changes the neutrophils undergo are helping infected lungs to clear the virus, or are damaging them and contributing to inflammation.

Project Description (see https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ich/education/fellowships-studentships/phd-studentships/phd-studentships-2016-17/r-smyth-projdesc)

The project would be suitable for a student with a BSc in Molecular/Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology or similar discipline. Applicants should have, or expect to receive a first class honours or an upper second class degree, and should be ordinarily resident in the UK or EU. Knowledge and experience of working with mammalian cells is required. Knowledge of basic Microbiology and Immunology techniques is beneficial. The student will receive a stipend of £16,296 per annum as well as the cost of tuition fees at the UK/EU rate.

To apply, please send a current CV including the contact details of two professional referees as well as a cover letter to Ella Brown ([Email Address Removed]). Enquiries regarding the post can be made to Dr Jenny Herbert ([Email Address Removed])

Deadline for receipt of applications: 10th April 2017