Download Horizontal gene transfer of antimicrobial

SGUL/LSHTM MRC London Intercollegiate Doctoral Training Partnership – 2017/18 Potential PhD Projects
Title of PhD project
Horizontal gene transfer of antimicrobial resistance in
pathogens of clinical importance
Supervisor
Prof Jodi Lindsay
SGUL
Co-Supervisor
Dr Adam Witney
SGUL
Brief description of project
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the greatest threat to
modern medicine (amr-review.org/Publications). Resistant
bacteria exchange AMR genes with other bacteria by
horizontal gene transfer mechanisms – “bacterial sex”. Our
recent studies have suggested that the important AMR
pathogen methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) acquires AMR genes at very high frequency as it
colonizes the host, but also loses resistances frequently. We
have now built laboratory models to investigate how this gene
transfer occurs, how it is regulated, whether we can
encourage resistance gene loss and how AMR populations
evolve. These studies will be extended to include other
important hospital-acquired infections and clinically important
AMR pathogens from patients in our hospital. The aim is to
better diagnose, predict and control the evolution of AMR
pathogens under selective pressures in the host.
Particular prior educational
requirements for a student
undertaking this project
Standard institution research degree entry requirements.
Skills we expect a student
to develop/acquire whilst
pursuing this project
The PhD student will develop and manipulate laboratory
bacteriology models, and genetically investigate evolving
populations in these models and in patient samples using
molecular methods and whole genome sequencing. Training
in all aspects including microbiology, genetic, genomic and
bioinformatics skills will be provided. This is a multidisciplinary project with translational relevance to benefit
patients, and the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of
experts in diagnostics, big data, epidemiology and public
health.
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