This research project will be centred on investigating immunopathology and susceptibility to infection in patients with acute decompensated cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). It may include evaluating immune checkpoints on innate and adaptive immune cells, their role on immune cell function in the circulation and mechanisms of microbial translocation in contributing to septic and portal hypertensive complications in this cohort of patients. Depending on timelines and recruitment, the candidate may also be involved in a scientific sub-study of the PROMISE trial, a national multicentre study evaluating faecal microbiome transplantation vs. placebo in cirrhosis. In particular, the candidate would undertake laboratory work to determine the changes to monocyte phenotype and function with this intervention. Their laboratory work may involve collaboration and work at other London centres including Kings College London and Imperial College London as part of a wider collaborative research group. The candidate will be involved in patient screening, recruitment and biological sampling. They will be taught basic lab-based immunological techniques to generate novel data with no prior lab experience necessary. They will be supported in the lab by clinician scientist Dr Arjuna Singanayagam with support of the other members of the lab group. The aim would be to generate preliminary data sufficient to apply for external grant funding. If the candidate has specific research interests within the area of complications of cirrhosis or immune dysfunction in liver disease, the project can be negotiated. The successful candidate will be expected to register for an MD or PhD higher research degree with St. Georges University of London (SGUL) with supervision from Dr Singanayagam and Professor Forton.