Predictive Modelling of Influenza Evolution using generative AI
Project details
First supervisor: Dr David Burke
This is a self-funded PhD project
Duration of Phd: 4 years full-time.
Eligibility: UK / Overseas
Start date: October, February or June
Fees: See Fees and Funding for current rates. Please contact the supervisor to discuss tuition fee structure and potential bench fees
Application deadline: Open until suitable candidate is found.
Reference number: 2026-DB
Project description
Rapid evolution of seasonal influenza virus continues to undermine vaccination efforts. Traditional phylogenetic and serological methods remain reactive and limited in predictive power. Despite decades of surveillance, vaccine mismatch continues to occur, with significant public health and economic consequences. This project proposes the development of a AI-driven framework that uses generative AI capable to predicting virus–antibody interactions. Integration of viral sequence data, structural modelling, and immunological data to predict antigenic properties of novel viruses and identify escape-prone mutations.
Person specification
We will consider applications from prospective students with a good bioinformatic, biomedical, microbiology, biology, dental, medical or similar degree (minimum of a 2:1).
Research training
- The candidate will develop skills in Python or R programming languages.
- The candidate will learn a range of computational structural biology techniques and modern machine learning/AI algorithms.
- The candidate will learn effective research training and will enhance their scientific writing and presentation skills.
- During the PhD, the candidate will also have access to many training courses available for postgraduate students.
To view entry requirements and further general information, see Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD prospectus page.
Next steps
Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss projects with the first supervisor prior to submitting an application.
Please apply online at apply.kcl.ac.uk following these steps:
- Register a new account/login.
- Once logged in, select Create a new application.
- Enter ‘Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time)/(Part-time)' under Choose a programme. Please ensure you select the correct mode of study.
- Select a start date from the list.
- Please note: Applicants must include the project reference number (2024/DOCS/DB) in the 'Research proposal' and 'Funding (point 5)' sections of the application.
Contact for further information
Name: Dr David Burke
Email: david.burke@kcl.ac.uk
Related Centre: Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions
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