PhD position

Impact of Flavivirus genomic variations on virulence, transmission and diagnostics

Context

In the framework of the project “Digital Innovations and Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases in Africa (DI-DIDA)” financed by Horizon Europe programme (https://didida-health.eu/), a 3- years PhD fellowship is available in the research unit PIMIT (https://pimit.univ-reunion.fr/) at the Université de La Réunion. Scientific expertise: Genetic, molecular virology, medical entomology

Key words: Genomics, arbovirus and vector interactions, in vitro and in vivo evaluations, molecular and cellular imaging.

Job description

As a PhD researcher with good theoretical and practical knowledge in microbial-host interactions, you will investigate the intricate interplay between genetic diversity and viral behavior. Through experimental infections, genomic analyses, and molecular and cellular studies, the project aims to investigate the virulence and transmission capabilities of various dengue genotypes, with potential diagnostic implications.

Abstract

Flaviviruses, which are transmitted by mosquito vectors, pose significant global health threats due to their potential to cause severe epidemics. This PhD project centers on dengue serotype I, which has been responsible for recent epidemics in Reunion Island and the Seychelles. Through experimental infections, genomic analyses, and molecular and cellular studies, we aim to assess the virulence and transmission capabilities of various genotypes. This will help uncovering the intricate interplay between genetic diversity and viral behavior. By utilizing data from ongoing dengue cohorts that categorize patients based on symptom severity, the goal is to unravel how genomic variations impact virus transmission, virulence, and diagnostic precision. The results could carry substantial implications for strengthening disease prevention and control strategies, along with advancements in diagnostic methods. Furthermore, the insights obtained from this investigation have broader implications that extend beyond dengue. This is supported by the increasing threat of emerging flaviviruses, particularly within African settings.

Contact : 

Dr. Patrick MAVINGUI, Director of the research unit PIMIT: patrick.mavingui@univ-reunion.fr; patrick.mavingui@cnrs.fr