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PhD Scholarship in microbial biology and genomics

Employer
Global Academy Jobs
Location
Australia
Closing date
Jul 20, 2016

Job Details

PhD opportunity in microbial biology and genomics with the University of Queensland Diamantina Institute

The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute (UQDI) was established in 2007 as the sixth research institute of The University of Queensland. The aim of the Institute is to develop a better understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of disease, and to translate that understanding into practical outcomes for patients. Based at the Translational Research Institute (TRI) at the Princess Alexandra Hospital teaching campus in Brisbane, the Institute has more than 250 researchers and students who work closely with clinicians in the areas of cancer, immunology and genomic medicine. As the largest partner in TRI, UQDI has build and continues to expand major programs in Cancer, Immunology and Genomic Medicine research, with a particular focus on research aimed at development of new treatments. Details of the research interests of academic staff may be accessed on the Institute's web site at http://www.di.uq.edu.au/research.

The Role

The successful Scholar will pursue a PhD degree in microbial biology and genomics with a specific emphasis on respiratory bacterial pathogens, by conducting research in the laboratory using a variety of experimental methods in the fields of molecular biology, immunology and microbial genetics.

The Project

This PhD project will be to conduct research in microbial biology, immunology and genomics to establish how inhibitory antibody affects respiratory bacterial infections. Antibody normally protects against infection. However, recently we identified that some patients with chronic lung infections had a type of antibody that actually protects their colonising bacteria from killing by the immune system (Wells, et al., 2014). Although specific to Pseudomonas aeruginosa we hypothesise that inhibitory antibodies will exist that are specific for other bacterial pathogens.

This project will explore the role and mechanism of antibody inhibition in the development of chronic lung infections. The person will use a mixture of molecular microbiology, immunological assays and genomic techniques to investigate how the presence of inhibitory antibody affects not only specific Pseudomonas strains but the whole lung microbiota over the course of chronic lung infection. These aims will be investigated using bacterial strain mutagenesis, purification of specific antibodies and a host of immunological assays. These experiments may also be conducted using strains or materials collected from patients with or without inhibitory antibodies .The project will also use DNA sequencing and analysis of both single strains and bacterial communities to track the effect of inhibitory antibody on bacterial genome editing and microbiome community structure over the course of a chronic infection. The induction and action of inhibitory antibodies may also be investigated by a combination of in vivo (mouse models) or in vitro methods.

The Person

The candidate will have a 1st Class Honours, a Masters or an equivalent degree in microbiology, science, or similar research field and a strong motivation to pursue a PhD degree. Prospective students will be provided with assistance to apply for a scholarship. Applicants should have basic knowledge in molecular biology, microbiology and genetics. Relevant laboratory experience, particularly with techniques for microbial microbiology, is highly desirable.

Remuneration

The base stipend will be at the rate of AUD$26,288 (this rate is equivalent to the standard UQ scholarship rate, 2016 rate, indexed annually) per annum tax-free for three years with the possibility of a six month extension in approved circumstances.

Enquiries

For further information about the research project, please contact Dr Timothy Wells via Professor Mark Morrison (m.morrison1@uq.edu.au).

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below. All applicants must supply the following documents: Cover letter, Resume, and academic records.

For information about entering the UQ PhD program and for the full terms and conditions, please visit the UQ Graduate School website at http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school.  Please note that at this stage of the process you do not need to complete the online application for admission form. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the lead researcher and the successful applicant will be provided with information on how to apply for admission to UQ.  The shortlisted candidate will also be put into the Graduate School scholarship round.

Reference: 499149

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Global Academy Jobs works with over 250 universities worldwide to promote academic mobility and international research collaboration. Global problems need international solutions. Our jobs board and emails reach the academics and researchers who can help.

"The globalisation of higher education continues apace, driving in turn the ongoing development of the global knowledge economy, striving for solutions to the world’s problems and educating a next generation of leaders and contributors."

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