Investigating How a Host Organism Senses and Responds to Bacteria in its Environment

Can you introduce yourself and your summer research project?

I’m Eleonora Mannino, a fourth-year Neuroscience student at the University of Edinburgh. This summer, I worked with Caenorhabditis elegans to study how organisms sense bacterial environments, focusing on Bacillus subtilis. My research explored whether sensory defects in cilia-defective mutants affect their ability to detect bacterial biofilm, which could offer insights into host-microbe interactions and neurodegenerative diseases.

How did you receive the funding for your research project?

I received funding through the Biomedical Sciences Vacation Scholarship from the University of Edinburgh, which supported my research.

What was the most rewarding part of your summer research?

The most rewarding part of my summer research was gaining independence in the lab, organizing my experiments, and applying knowledge from both my university studies and research papers. It boosted my confidence in my scientific abilities.

Why should students get involved in a summer research project?

A summer project provides hands-on lab experience, allowing you to develop unique skills and work alongside experienced researchers. It’s a fun, educational opportunity that enhances both academic and professional development—and getting paid is a bonus!

How has this research experience influenced your future study and career paths?

This experience solidified my interest in lab-based research. It has confirmed that I enjoy working in a lab setting and see myself pursuing a career in research.

What advice would you give future students applying for summer research scholarships?

For future students, my advice would be to start reaching out to supervisors early in the academic year to find a project that truly interests you and ensure you have time to apply for scholarships. Being proactive greatly increases your chances of success.

View Eleonora Mannino's poster for more information: