PhD Studentship- Specific targeting of antigens for activation of cytotoxic T cells against intracellular pathogens

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Veterinary Medicine & Science
Location:  UK Other
Closing Date:  Thursday 25 April 2024
Reference:  MED1988

Project title: Specific targeting of antigens for activation of cytotoxic T cells against intracellular pathogens

Principal supervisor: Professor Janet Daly

Other supervisors: Prof Luisa Martinez-Pomares, Dr Giuseppe Mantovani, Dr Leah Goulding 

Background: The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) undertakes research on many key aspects of companion animals and livestock health and production. Research at the School is integrated into the University structure with established world class research in biomedical sciences within the other University Schools.  Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science and Comparative and Human Medicine.

Project description:

Despite the recognition that induction of cell-mediated immunity is important for a durable immune response, particularly against highly variable viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, viral vaccine development has historically focussed on induction of neutralising antibody responses. 

In this project, the student will test if CD8 T cell activation and protection against infection increases by targeting influenza antigen to dendritic cells. Dendritic cells exploit the endocytic receptor CD206 to internalise antigen and promote peptide presentation on MHCII (for CD4 T cell activation) and MHCI (for CD8 activation). In this project, influenza virus antigen will be coupled to a novel tool specific for CD206 that facilitates cellular uptake and is targeted and retained within a unique early endosomal compartment. 

The student will be an active member of the Wolfson Centre for Global Virus Research and One Virology research cluster; ground-breaking interdisciplinary teams of researchers bringing together expertise in human and veterinary viruses to make new discoveries, broaden scientific understanding and pioneer novel approaches to challenging infections. The supervisory team brings together expertise in synthetic chemistry, lectin receptor biology and innate immunity, cellular immunology, and infection biology.

Further information and Application

Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree and ideally a 1st and/or a Masters’ degree in a relevant subject. A strong foundation in immunology is required.  

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: Professor Janet Daly ([email protected]). 

Candidates should apply online and include a CV. When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (36m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to [email protected].

Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to [email protected].

Interview Date: 

Interview w/c February 12, 2024.

Start Date: 

April 1, 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Closing date: 

The position will be filled when suitable candidates have been identified. Early application is strongly encouraged.

Eligibility for Funding

This is a fully funded studentship open to UK nationals only. For home student eligibility guidelines, please refer to the UKRI website