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Published: 02 Feb 2022 689 views
The project aims to investigate the feasibility of using radiation to inactivate virus for vaccine formulation. The recent Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of vaccines and the needs for faster, economically affordable and safer vaccine development methods. Vaccines prevent an estimated 3 million deaths/year worldwide but a further 1.5 million lives/year could be saved with better vaccines and wider coverage (Wellcome). Ionizing radiation could provide an alternative option with significant benefits compared to current vaccine formulations. The concept relies on using ionizing radiation to inactivate the virus by damaging its RNA material without destroying the key epitopes or its structural integrity (retaining therefore the full breadth of antigens targets). Simulations have confirmed that this could be achieved with an optimum selection of radiation quality and dose. The inactivated virus would then be used in combination with an adjuvant to stimulate the immune system response. The project will assess the efficiency of different radiation modalities in virus inactivation, establish dose response curves, develop sample radiation-vaccines and compare their efficacy against chemical and other conventional vaccine modalities using a range of biological systems. Cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacturing, including access to radiation facilities and transport, will also be addressed.
The project is a collaboration between the University of Surrey (Radiation and Medical Physics Group and Section of Immunology, School of Biosciences and Medicine) and the National Physical Laboratory.
The University of Surrey was established on 9 September 1966 with the grant of its Royal Charter, but its roots go back to a late 19th-century concern to provide greater access to further and higher education for the poorer inhabitants of London. Since the University's founding in the 1960s, and before that at Battersea College, our community has thrived through strong connections and collaboration with the outside world. We've formed close partnerships with other institutions and businesses, reaching across geographic boundaries, and used those relationships to bring potential to life.... continue reading
| Application Deadline | 31 Mar 2022 |
| Country to study | United Kingdom |
| School to study | University of Surrey |
| Type | PhD |
| Sponsor | University of Surrey |
| Gender | Men and Women |
UK and EU fees covered. Annual stipend of £15,609 per annum.
Candidates must hold a First or 2:1 UK honours degree in a relevant subject area, or a 2:2 alongside a good masters degree (a distinction is usually required).
IELTS requirements: An IELTS Academic of 6.5 or above with 6 in each individual category (or equivalent qualification from other agencies). For more details on English Language requirements see English Language requirements.
Applications can be made through our Physics PhD course page. Please state the project title and supervisor clearly on all applications.