PhD Studentship: Mechanisms of infection and virulence of Salmonella in the liver

Primary Supervisor - Dr Naiara  Beraza

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a foodborne pathogen that induces gastroenteritis in humans and animals. While most of the research investigating Salmonella infection have focused on intestinal and immune cells, the liver is one of the main targets of Salmonella. The liver is mainly composed of epithelial cells, called hepatocytes, with a strong metabolic function. Still, little is known about how Salmonella can infect hepatocytes and whether Salmonella can persist and grow inside these cells.  

The aim of this PhD is to define the mechanisms by which Salmonella infects hepatocytes and mediates its intracellular growth. This knowledge is highly relevant to inform future strategies to reduce Salmonella pathogenicity in the liver. 

To do this, the PhD student will get extensive training in in vivo techniques including animal handling and infection, as well as isolation of primary liver cells for characterisation in culture. The student will receive training in cellular biology methodologies including analysis of gene regulation by qPCR and protein expression by western blot, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. The student will also learn microbiology techniques and will receive training in complex methodologies including transposon directed insertion-site sequencing (TRADIS) and its analysis using bioinformatics tools.    

This extensive training will provide the student a series of valuable transferable skills essential for the progression of their scientific career.  

The project will be carried out at the Beraza Lab in collaboration with the Kingsley Lab at Quadram Institute, co-housing research laboratories with clinical facilities combining basic with biomedical research.  

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2025 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP CASE students undertake a three to 18-month placement with the non-academic partner during their study. The placement offers experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. 

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 28, 29 or 30 January 2025.  

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/ 

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2024/5 stipend rate: £19,237), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship. 

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