This PhD opportunity is being offered as part of the LSTM and Lancaster University Doctoral Training Partnership. Find out more about the studentships and how to apply.
| Abstract | The global resurgence of Monkeypox virus (MPXV) has highlighted critical gaps in our understanding of its environmental transmission dynamics. While direct skin-to-skin contact remains the primary route of transmission, evidence suggests that contaminated surfaces, and air may play an important role in sustaining transmission, particularly in healthcare and community settings. A robust evidence base is needed to quantify these risks and to evaluate the impact of interventions designed to mitigate them. This PhD project will investigate the environmental transmission of MPXV through a combination of controlled laboratory experiments and the use of the quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA). The student will focus on defining the dose–response relationship for MPXV in human skin models and integrating this laboratory-derived data into QMRA frameworks. Experimental work will quantify viral persistence and infectivity on surfaces and in aerosols, as well as the replication of MPXV in ex vivo human skin and 3D skin models. These data will be combined with literature-derived estimates of environmental viral concentrations to parameterize realistic exposure scenarios. Using basic computational modelling (R or Python), the student will generate QMRA models to estimate infection risks across different settings and intervention strategies. Specific emphasis will be placed on assessing the efficacy of surface disinfection methods, improvements in air circulation, and the use of personal protective measures such as masks. By systematically incorporating laboratory findings with real-world environmental data, the project will provide a quantitative framework to evaluate how interventions reduce infection probability and interrupt transmission. The expected outputs include dose–response models, validated QMRA tools, experimental datasets, and peer-reviewed publications, as well as contributions to collaborative projects with the World Health Organization (WHO) on MPXV disinfection strategies. The student will also present findings at international conferences and contribute to expert panels, ensuring rapid translation of results into public health guidance. Overall, this project will deliver critical insights into the environmental transmission pathways of MPXV, inform evidence-based infection prevention and control strategies, and provide the student with interdisciplinary training in microbiology, virology, and the quantitative microbial risk assessment framework. |
| Where does this project lie in the translational pathway? | T1 - Basic Research,T3 - Evidence into Practice |
| Methodological Aspects | The project will integrate both experimental and computational approaches, with strong emphasis on quantitative analysis. The key methodological components include: Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) framework: Development and application of risk models to link experimental data with infection risk, incorporating dose–response relationships, exposure scenarios, and uncertainty analysis. The student will apply computational tools (R, Python or Matlab) to build and validate these models. Cell culture and virus culture techniques: Propagation of Monkeypox virus (MPXV) in relevant cell lines and human skin models (including 3D tissue systems), enabling controlled laboratory investigations of viral replication and host interactions. Virus quantification and characterization: Use of quantitative PCR (qPCR), plaque assays, and complementary molecular techniques measure virus persistence and viral replication Data analysis and integration: Statistical and computational analysis of experimental datasets to derive dose–response curves, compare viral clades, and quantify host-related factors influencing infection. Data will be integrated into QMRA models to generate predictive insights with translational value. |
| Expected Outputs | Peer-reviewed publications: At least 2–3 first-author manuscripts in high-impact journals, covering (i) experimental findings on MPXV replication and infectious dose in human skin models, (ii) comparative analysis of clade- and host-related factors, and (iii) integration of these data into Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) models. Additional collaborative or co-authored publications may also result. Presentations and dissemination: Abstracts and oral/poster presentations at major international conferences. Data and modelling outputs: Curated experimental datasets and validated QMRA models that can be shared with the wider research and public health communities, supporting reproducibility and future research. Capacity building and training outputs: The student will develop transferable skills in quantitative modelling, interdisciplinary research, and microbiology. Policy and public health impact: By defining the infectious dose and host factors influencing MPXV skin infection, and by embedding these data within risk assessment models, the project will provide evidence to inform infection control guidelines and public health interventions, ensuring clear translational benefit. |
| Training Opportunities | The student will attend Michigan State University for two weeks to train with experts in the Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment framework. By joining the QMRA Institute – Risk Modeling cohort, the student will receive immersive, hands-on instruction in all core QMRA components (exposure assessment, dose–response modelling, uncertainty analysis, risk communication, etc.), engage in team-based case studies, and benefit from sustained mentoring across disciplines (microbiology, engineering, epidemiology, and policy). In parallel, the student will complement their PhD studies with relevant classes offered by LSTM and partner institutions — in areas such as advanced statistics, QMRA modelling, and environmental microbiology. The student will present their research at national and international conferences, strengthening their communication and networking profile and will receive continuous mentoring offered from their supervisors, and opportunities to build broader professional skills (grant writing, project management, data visualization, science communication). |
| Skills Required | The student should ideally have some prior laboratory experience, particularly in microbiology . A basic familiarity with data analysis and the use of phyton or R would be advantageous but is not essential. The only mandatory requirement is a strong motivation to learn and apply quantitative approaches, as the student will be expected to incorporate basic modelling using Matlab, R, or Python (according to their preference). To support this development, dedicated classes will be offered to build modelling and data analysis skills. In parallel, the student will receive training, supervision, and mentoring to further strengthen their laboratory expertise. With this combined support, the student will be able to confidently integrate both experimental and computational methods throughout their PhD. |
| Subject Areas | Health policy and health systems |
| Key Publications associated with this project |
Community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 by surfaces: risks and risk reduction strategies AK Pitol, TR Julian - Environmental Science & Technology Letters, 2021 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.estlett.0c00966 Longitudinal monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on high-touch surfaces in a community setting AP Harvey, ER Fuhrmeister, ME Cantrell, AK Pitol… - Environmental science & technology letters, 2020. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.estlett.0c00875 SARS-CoV-2 survival on skin and its transfer from contaminated surfaces AK Pitol, S Venkatesan, S Richards, M Hoptroff… - PLoS One, 2025. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0325235 Efficacy of Laundry Practices in Eliminating Mpox Virus From Fabrics AK Pitol, S Richards, P Mirindi, HO Mahamed, A Baller… - The Journal of Infectious. https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/231/4/e607/7918742 |