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The role of giant virus endogenizations in host adaptations

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Project Description

Discovered only two decades ago, Giant viruses are an exceptional viral lineage that has large virions as big as bacteria and massive genomes, up to 1.5 Megabases. These can encode hundreds of genes, with many of them typically from host origin. Now we know that giant viruses can integrate in their host genomes, and this is more prevalent than previously thought. While many of these viral genes are epigenetically silenced, some might help the host, and this project is about understanding the benefits of encoding a potentially lethal viral predator in a host genome.

Research themes
Project Specific Training

In the laboratory we use a combination of functional genomics, epigenetics, comparative genomics and molecular biology. Most project have a combination of laboratory and bioinformatics. The training is from peer lab members and the PI, directly. Some external training in specialised courses or laboratory visits is also possible. 

Potential Career Trajectory

Epigenetics, functional genomics and bioinformatics are critical skills very sought after in all sorts of private and public sectors. 

Project supervisor/s
Alex de Mendoza
School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences
QMUL
a.demendozasoler@qmul.ac.uk
Ferdinand Marletaz
Genetics, Evolution & Environment / CLOE
UCL
f.marletaz@ucl.ac.uk
Supervision balance
80:20