Professor Robin May

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

My group are interested in host-pathogen interactions and, in particular, in understanding how some pathogens are able to subvert the innate immune system. Most of our work focuses on phagocytic cells, which some microorganisms are able to use as a ‘safe house’ within which to replicate. We try and understand how such pathogens can survive inside this hostile environment and the effect this intracellular reservoir has on disease progression.

The major focus of our group is on fungal infections, with a particular interest in cryptococcosis. This potentially fatal disease is caused by two pathogenic species of Cryptococci, Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii, which share a remarkable ability to evade the innate immune system and disseminate throughout the body. This is thought, in large part, to be the result of natural selection through environmental amoebae, since virulence traits that the fungus has evolved to survive within such predators typically work just as effectively within human phagocytes.

Research Groups

Institute of Microbiology and Infection

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Laid-back, flexible, curiosity-driven.

Provision of Training

In the beginning we will ‘direct’ your training, which will be delivered primarily by postdocs/PhD students in my group and those of collaborators, but very rapidly we’ll expect you to take responsibility for identifying the training you need and working with us to set it up.

Progression Monitoring and Management

A PhD is about developing your own career, so we will expect you to take responsibility for your own progress with our support, but we will hold weekly group meetings, and fortnightly one-to-one meetings, so that you can ensure you have maximum support and guidance from the whole lab.

Communication

I’m currently on a secondment into government, so I’m only physically on campus one day per week (but have an ‘open door’ policy on that day). On the other days, I’m always reachable by email – although I might reply at odd times of day (and night!), I don’t expect you to do the same!

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

The meetings will be mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone and I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

Working Pattern

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Previous Projects (2024-25)

Co-supervisor on a project with Professor Paula Mendes.