Developing Genetic Control Strategies for the Neglected Malaria Vector Anopheles funestus

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 Despite significant progress in its control, malaria continues to be a significant public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The recent increases in malaria cases highlights the need for new and novel vector control strategies, such as genetic control. Genetic vector control uses gene editing technologies with the aim of modifying or reducing the wild vector population. Our group uses a technique known as gene drive to bias the inheritance of these edited genetic elements to enable more rapid spread of the desired gene edit and ultimately a faster modification or reduction in the target population. Whilst the majority of malaria vector research focusses on Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles funestus, the dominant vector in southernly regions of sub-Saharan Africa, has been comparatively understudied largely due to logistical difficulties in rearing the species in a laboratory setting. Despite these challenges our group recently reported generation of the first transgenic An. funestus and the group continues to work on development of genetic control of this important vector species. This project will therefore look to build on this recent progress and aim to generate new transgenic An. funestus targeting key genes involved in fertility, parasite susceptibility or insecticide resistance. Once appropriate target sites have been identified, gene drives will be introduced using a CRISPR system and resulting transgenic lines characterised.
Where does this project lie in the translational pathway? T1 - Basic Research,T3 - Evidence into Practice
Methodological Aspects
  • Bioinformatics skills to identify target regions
  • Molecular biology and cloning
  • CRISPR genome editing
  • Embryo microinjection and generation of transgenic mosquito lines
  • Characterisation of transgenic lines.
  • Cross and cage based population simulations.
  • Modelling gene drives
Expected Outputs The project will produce high quality REF returnable 3*/4* publications and will provide the evidence base for large scale research council, philanthropic (e.g. OP and Gates) and industry funding in a global priority area. the development of an international profile in mosquito genetics and gene drive research; transferable personal skills to industry and/or academia.
Training Opportunities
  • CRISPR genome editing
  • DNA cloning and molecular biology techniques
  • Execution of large cage studies
  • Bioinformatics
  • Insect husbandry
  • Professional development course
  • Data analysis and presentation
  • Publication and report writing
Skills Required
  • A good general understanding of genetics
  • An aptitude for molecular biology, genetics and vector control.
Subject Areas Malaria and other Vector Borne Diseases
Key Publications associated with this project

Quinn, C., Anthousi, A., Wondji, C. and Nolan, T., 2021. CRISPR-mediated knock-in of transgenes into the malaria vector Anopheles funestus. G3, 11(8), p.jkab201.

Gantz, V.M. and Bier, E., 2022. Active genetics comes alive: Exploring the broad applications of CRISPR‐based selfish genetic elements (or gene‐drives). Bioessays, 44(8), p.2100279

Naidoo, K. and Oliver, S.V., 2025. Gene drives: an alternative approach to malaria control?. Gene Therapy, 32(1), pp.25-37.