Ticks as vectors of Lyme disease and other bacterial pathogens in the North of Ireland

Summary

Background
For humans Lyme borreliosis is the most frequent vector borne bacterial infection in the Northern hemisphere (1). It is spread by indigenous hard bodied ticks with a broad range of potential host species inc. mammals and birds. Ticks depend on humidity and vegetation cover and require the availability of several different host species. Climate change expands the geographic and seasonal range of the ticks’ vector activity.

Most important in Europe is the tick vector Ixodes ricinus (2), potentially infected with Borrelia species, (e.g. B. burgdorferi) and other pathogens of human and veterinary importance like Anaplasma phagocytophilum (cause of cow milk drop). Exposure risk assessment requires reliable data of tick abundance and infection rate with pathogens. In comparison to other European countries, such survey data are scarce in Ireland (3), particularly its geographic north.

Therefore, this project aims to investigate tick abundance and infection with a particular focus on this geographic region across the border between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. Results of traditional blanket sweep surveys are fraught with uncertainty; hence, the project will apply a variety of techniques for comparison.

Key research areas

• Comparison of tick survey methods under consideration of environmental factors.
• Seasonality of tick activity depending on habitat and climate.
• Impact of host abundance and management.
• Infestation of ticks and selected hosts with bacterial pathogens.

Methodology
Field surveys of tick abundance will complement traditional sweep methods with trapping. Laboratory tests for identifying bacterial pathogens involve genetic and immunologic diagnostics. Tick host surveys require collaboration with landowners /managers.

Please note:

• The project is based in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK.
• Part-time mode of study is only applicable to home applicants.
• A project proposal is not required with this application.
• Applicants must show flexibility in field work and acquire knowledge on ecological survey techniques and laboratory tests.
• Essential: Driving licence valid for the UK, physical ability to conduct field surveys under challenging conditions, general laboratory work experience, basic statistics.
• Desirable: Field identification skills, experience with GIS, microbiology and PCR.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.