Immunophenotyping and biomarker discovery for eosinophilic esophagitis

Overview

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a debilitating and prevalent disease that is on the rise worldwide and is particularly prevalent in New Zealand. Understanding of the disease pathogenesis of EoE is lacking. To improve treatment options and outcomes for EoE patients it is paramount that new biomarkers and treatment targets are discovered. Identification of these biomarkers and targets holds the potential to improve outcomes for patients. Our research is focused on understanding the immunological mechanisms that drive EoE and identifying novel biomarkers to improve treatment options for patients.

This PhD project will involve characterising immune cell phenotypes and functions in EoE and identifying potential clinical biomarkers of EoE. This will require various experimental techniques, which may include RNA sequencing, flow cytometry, molecular techniques, microscopy and bioinformatics. This will involve working with EoE patients and a focus on conducting clinical work, and may also involve working with live animals to establish a model of EoE. You will be working within an interdisciplinary team, including postdoctoral researchers and clinicians, and will gain valuable experience in translational science. This project has important clinical applications and could shift the paradigm of how we currently manage EoE.

This is a joint project between the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research and Otago University.

The successful candidate will have obtained a relevant BSc(Hons) or MSc degree with excellent grades and prior lab research experience. Knowledge of the following areas is desirable

• Immunology
• Gastrointestinal disease
• Bioinformatics

You will be encouraged to apply for a PhD scholarship. Please indicate in your cover letter why you are interested in this project.

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago