Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

The stability and composition of the airway microbiome is an important determinant of respiratory health. Over the past two years my proposed supervisors' research has identified key commensal-pathogen interactions that are considered beneficial due to their ability to impede the growth of the opportunistic pathogens Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Moraxella catarrhalis that are responsible for a range of respiratory infections including pneumonia, otitis media and acute exacerbations of chronic lung disease, leading causes of childhood mortality and morbidity. However, our understanding of the how these commensal bacteria interact with respiratory viruses remains unknown. Viruses such as RSV and Rhinovirus are major drivers of pneumonia and asthma exacerbations. 

This PhD will explore the role of these protective commensals in defence against respiratory viral pathogens. A human airway epithelial cell model will be used to study host-commensal-viral interaction to understand the role of commensal in restricting viral adhesion, multiplication or inflammation. The expected outcome is to provide a holistic understanding of the breath of pathogen inhibition offered by these commensals. In addition to their role in impeding bacterial pathogens, deciphering the role in protecting against respiratory viruses will help advance these commensal strains as lead candidates for commercial development as novel intervention against respiratory illnesses.

Australian NHMRC

Telethon 7 Trust

Western Australian Child Health Research Fund

Prof. Mark Nicol

mark.nicol@uwa.edu.au

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. 

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