From Molecule to Field: Translational Development of a Next-Generation Diagnostic for Strongyloides fuelleborni to Improve Global and One Health Outcomes

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

Strongyloides fuelleborni is a neglected zoonotic helminth that infects both humans and non-human primates, contributing to the burden of strongyloidiasis in tropical regions. Infections can be life-threatening, particularly among immunocompromised individuals, yet current diagnostics, primarily faecal microscopy and serology, show low sensitivity and may fail to detect S. fuelleborni infections. This leads to under-diagnosis, delayed treatment, and poor public health surveillance.

This PhD project aims to develop a next-generation diagnostic pipeline for S. fuelleborni, bridging molecular discovery, immunological validation, and translational field testing. The student will identify and characterise species-specific antigens using comparative proteomics and immunomics approaches, expressing recombinant proteins for immunoassay development. Candidate targets will be evaluated using sera from infected humans, non-human primates, and high-risk groups such as UK soldiers and travellers returning from endemic regions.

Subsequent phases will optimise and validate a sensitive and specific serological or point-of-care assay, benchmarked against existing diagnostic standards. Field evaluations will be conducted in endemic areas via LSTM’s international partners to assess diagnostic accuracy and public health applicability. Immunoprofiling studies will explore how early, accurate diagnosis may improve understanding of host immune responses and inform early clinical interventions.

This interdisciplinary project spans the full translational research continuum (T1–T4) and embodies the DTP’s goal of training “bridge scientists” capable of translating laboratory discovery into population health benefit. The outcomes will advance diagnostic capacity for a neglected tropical disease and contribute to improved human, animal, and ecosystem health within a One Health framework.
Where does this project lie in the translational pathway? T1 - Basic Research, T2 - Human /Clinical Research, T3 - Evidence into Practice, T4 - Practice to Policy/Population
Expected Outputs

1. Scientific Publications: At least three peer-reviewed publications are anticipated:

  • Comparative proteomic and immunomic characterisation of Strongyloides fuelleborni antigens.
  • Development and validation of the novel diagnostic assay.
  • Field-focused publication reporting diagnostic performance and One Health implications.

2. Research and Translational Deliverables:

  • A validated diagnostic prototype adaptable to low-resource settings.
  • A curated database of antigenic and proteomic targets.
  • Quantitative models describing diagnostic accuracy and infection dynamics.

3. Funding and Collaboration Opportunities: Positioned to attract follow-on funding from translational innovation schemes and strengthen partnerships between LSTM, Lancaster, and international collaborators.

4. Impact and Legacy: Improved detection and management of strongyloidiasis, informing public health policy and training a versatile translational researcher.
Training Opportunities

1. Core DTP Training: Foundational modules in translational research, data analysis, integrity, and programming (R/Python). Access to Vitae RDF framework.

2. Project-Specific Scientific Training: Molecular, proteomic, immunological, and bioinformatics methods including ELISA, LC-MS/MS, and quantitative modelling.

3. Interdisciplinary and Industry-Linked Opportunities: Collaboration with iiCON and LSTM Innovation Team, including short placements with SMEs or NGOs.

4. Career and Impact Development: Mentoring in grant writing, public engagement, and policy communication.
Skill Required

Essential:

  • Strong foundation in molecular biology or immunology with lab experience.
  • Analytical and quantitative aptitude.
  • Data management and critical interpretation skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork ability.

Desirable:

  • Experience in proteomics or diagnostic development.
  • Familiarity with R/Python or quantitative analysis.
  • Interest in translational science, One Health, and global health.
  • Motivation and adaptability for interdisciplinary research.
Key publications associated with this project

Juhász, A., et al. (2023) ‘Gastrointestinal parasites in captive olive baboons in a UK safari park: first report of Strongyloides fuelleborni in the UK’, Parasitology, 150(12), 1096–1104. Link

Nevin, W.D., et al. (2024) ‘Chronic Strongyloides stercoralis infection in Fijian migrants to the UK’, Journal of Medical Microbiology, 73(11), 001925. Link

Ruiz-Jiménez, F., et al. (2021) ‘Challenges on the development of a pseudotyping assay for Zika glycoproteins’, Journal of Medical Microbiology, 70(9), 001413. Link

Richins, T., et al. (2025, e-pub ahead of print) ‘Genetic diversity within Strongyloides fuelleborni: mitochondrial genome analysis reveals a clear African and Asian division’, Parasitology. Link

Juhász, A., et al. (2025) ‘Notes on the threadworm Strongyloides fuelleborni … and zoonotic strongyloidiasis in southern Malawi’. Link
Subject Areas Neglected Tropical Diseases