Virology MPhil

University of Liverpool

Virology is the study of viruses and the diseases they cause in humans and animals. This includes the study of the underlying mechanisms of virulence, virus epidemiology and immune responses to viruses. Virology is crucial for developing vaccines, antiviral therapies and diagnostic tools, which are essential for managing and preventing viral diseases.IntroductionThe Institute of Infection, Veterinary, and Ecological Sciences (IVES) brings together leading medical, veterinary and basic science researchers from across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences.Our virology research encompasses studies on the pathogenicity, diagnostics, identification, epidemiology and immune responses to a range of viral pathogens. These include flaviviruses such as Japanese encephalitis virus and Zika virus; Ebola virus; HIV; influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, infectious bronchitis virus, MERS-coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2.We use a variety of techniques, which include diagnostic identification methods, flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), epidemiology, transcriptomic and genomic technologies, proteomics, and infection models. We also use artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches to integrate and harmonise large datasets, including clinical metadata, to better understand diseases.By investigating the transmission routes and behaviour of pathogens during infections, we aim to design better diagnostic, therapeutic and vaccine strategies to improve the health of humans and animals.Our research is facilitated by state-of-the-art Containment Level 2 and Containment Level 3 laboratories, technology platforms including biological imaging.Research topicsRelevant topics in virology include:Emerging and Zoonotic infections – Zika virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, Chikungunya virus, Ebola virusGastrointestinal infections – Rotavirus, NorovirusRespiratory infections – Influenza virus, Respiratory syncytial virus, MERS-coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.Blood borne viruses – Human Immunodeficiency virus, Hepatitis C virusNeurological infections – Herpes Simplex virus, Japanese encephalitis virus.