Research Project 16
Short description
This project deals with - Advanced approaches to understanding biofilm-related infections in orthopaedic implants: from in vitro to in vivo models.
- Host institution: AO-FORSCHUNGSINSTITUT DAVOS, (ARI) Switzerland
DEPARTMENT: Infection Biology - Funded by: the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
- Supervisor: Principal Investigator, Fintan Moriarty, fintan.moriarty@aofoundation.org
- DC 16: NN
- Learn more about this position at EURAXESS
Project Description
DC16 will analyse mature P. aeruginosa biofilms on clinically relevant surfaces to understand their structure, resistance, and heterogeneity. The project involves gene expression analysis, testing existing and novel inhibitors, and exploring treatment synergies. In vivo models using zebrafish and mice will be developed to study biofilm formation, persistence, and host interactions, aiming to identify effective therapeutic strategies.
Objectives
This PhD project aims to establish robust in vitro and in vivo models of chronic P. aeruginosa biofilm infections, with a focus on understanding biofilm resilience and evaluating combination therapies. Chronic infections caused by P. aeruginosa pose a significant challenge due to their antibiotic tolerance and immune evasion capabilities. The project will integrate microbiology, molecular biology, imaging, and host-pathogen interaction studies to inform therapeutic development.
Research activities include:
Characterizing mature P. aeruginosa biofilms on titanium and other surfaces:
- Quantifying biomass, structure, and metabolic activity
- Identifying resilient subpopulations and extracellular matrix components
- Analyzing gene expression of resistance and virulence factors
Investigating synergistic effects of antibiotics and small molecule inhibitors:
- Assessing biofilm tolerance to anti-pseudomonal agents
- Evaluating combination treatments for biofilm prevention and eradication
Developing and validating a zebrafish model for chronic biofilm infections:
- Optimizing infection parameters for biofilm formation on implants
- Using live imaging and immunological assays to monitor infection dynamics
- Testing treatment strategies and studying immune evasion mechanisms
Training and mobility:
Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:
- University Hospital Regensburg (Germany)
- University College Cork (Ireland)
- Participation in specialised training workshops and international conferences