DC16: Advanced approaches to understanding biofilm-related infections in orthopaedic implants: from in vitro to in vivo models

Join the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network SHIELD (Strategies for Healing Implant-associated infections and Enhancing Longevity in Devices) and contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at combating implant-associated infections.

Objectives: This PhD project aims to establish robust in vitro and in vivo models of chronic P. aeruginosa biofilm infections, with a focus on understanding biofilm resilience and evaluating combination therapies. Chronic infections caused by P. aeruginosa pose a significant challenge due to their antibiotic tolerance and immune evasion capabilities. The project will integrate microbiology, molecular biology, imaging, and host-pathogen interaction studies to inform therapeutic development.

Research activities include:

Characterizing mature P. aeruginosa biofilms on titanium and other surfaces:

• Quantifying biomass, structure, and metabolic activity
• Identifying resilient subpopulations and extracellular matrix components
• Analyzing gene expression of resistance and virulence factors

Investigating synergistic effects of antibiotics and small molecule inhibitors:

• Assessing biofilm tolerance to anti-pseudomonal agents
• Evaluating combination treatments for biofilm prevention and eradication

Developing and validating a zebrafish model for chronic biofilm infections:

• Optimizing infection parameters for biofilm formation on implants
• Using live imaging and immunological assays to monitor infection dynamics
• Testing treatment strategies and studying immune evasion mechanisms

Training and mobility:

• Research secondments at SHIELD partner institutions:
• University Hospital Regensburg (Germany)
• University College Cork (Ireland)

Participation in specialised training workshops and international conferences.