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Stilbene and entomopathogenic nematodes: Unlocking the potential

Objective

Bacteria frequently form intimate associations with a eukaryotic host where they may have critical roles in the development, behavior, and/or functions of their animal symbiont. While the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood there is increasing evidence that the bacteria are employing proteins or molecules to send signals to their host. My goal is to understand the inter-kingdom signalling that occurs between a bacterium and its animal host using, as a model, the interaction between an entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) called Heterorhabditis and its symbiotic bacterium, Photorhabdus.

EPNs are soil-dwelling organisms that utilize a bacterial symbiont to kill their insect targets. Photorhabdus produces a bioactive secondary metabolite called stilbene (ST). ST is used as an antibiotic and a virulence factor. Furthermore, ST is required for nematode growth and development suggesting that ST may be an important inter-kingdom signalling molecule. In this vein, the proposed project will investigate fundamental aspects pertaining to host-symbiont evolution and interactions by: 1) investigating the evolutionary history of ST synthesis proteins, 2) determining the nematode response to ST, and 3) engineering increased ST production.

Aside from scientific advances, this fellowship would enable me to attend University College Cork (UCC) where beneficial training and knowledge will be obtained. For example, UCC provides training workshops on presentation skills, project management, and grant writing among others and aids in career management plans. Furthermore, I will learn new laboratory techniques and knowledge from this project. On the other hand, I will be able to bring my expertise in bacterial research to the host laboratory. This fellowship will have a significant impact on my career as an independent research scientist and will provide me opportunities to interact with the general public to enhance an overall knowledge of science.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

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MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2015

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK - NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, CORK
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 175 866,00
Address
WESTERN ROAD
T12 YN60 Cork
Ireland

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Region
Ireland Southern South-West
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 175 866,00
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