PhD Scholars in Biology, Neuroscience

UQ Centre for Clinical Research

In partnership with the Queensland Government and major US Philanthropic organisation Atlantic Philanthropies, The University of Queensland has developed the $70 million UQ Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR) at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH). Focused on improving people's lives through patient-orientated research, UQCCR offers state-of-the-art facilities and brings together leading health professionals, clinicians and scientists from around the globe. By 'patient-orientated research' we mean research that is conducted in response to questions that arise at the bedside. This allows us to provide better treatment and results for patients, as well as adding to the body of knowledge about particular diseases or problems. The specific research target is to more effectively treat newborn brain injury and prevent conditions such as cerebral palsy.

The role

PhD opportunities (2) available for students with an Honours/Masters degree in neuroscience, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field to join the Perinatal Research Centre at UQCCR, based at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Herston, Brisbane. The successful candidates will be enrolled in a higher degree (PhD) by research at the University of Queensland and carry out a research project focused on neuroprotective therapies to reduce neonatal brain injury.

The successful PhD candidates will work on exciting projects examining therapeutic interventions to prevent brain injury following neonatal hypoxia-ischaemia and/or intrauterine growth restriction in preclinical models. Techniques include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroencephalogram (EEG), behavioural testing, immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

To know more about the Perinatal Research Centre please see the following link: https://perinatal-research.centre.uq.edu.au/

The person

Prospective applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

• Applicants should possess a Bachelor with honours (H1 or H2A) or a Masters Degree in a related field (e.g. neuroscience, biochemistry, or molecular biology) and have a strong motivation to pursue a PhD degree.
• Applicants must have the ability to develop technical laboratory skills including in vivo techniques, and skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Applicants must have excellent writing abilities, and work effectively within a multidisciplinary and international research team.
• Applicants must be able to enrol full-time in the PhD program.

For a complete list of the UQ's minimum entry requirements please refer to:https://graduate-school.uq.edu.au/uq-research-degrees.

Scholarships and Remuneration

Selected prospective students will receive assistance to apply for either, the UQ Research Training Scholarship - Living Allowance or for international students, the UQ Research Training Scholarship - Tuition Fee Offset. The current Living Allowance rate is AUD$27,082 per annum (2018 rate, indexed annually) tax-free for three years with a possible six month extension in approved circumstances.

For possible scholarship options see https://graduate-school.uq.edu.au/scholarships. 

In addition a there will be a top-up stipend of $5000 per annum for the first year, which may be extended on an annual basis, based on progress and performance.

Enquiries & Application

Further information can be obtained by emailing Dr Tracey Bjorkman (t.bjorkman@uq.edu.au) or Dr Julie Wixey (j.wixey@uq.edu.au). Please include "Interested in Doctoral Studies" in the email subject line along with your query, recent curriculum vitae including names and contact details of two academic referees, academic transcripts and a brief statement of your research experience and interests.

Application Closing Date

30 March 2018 11:55pm E. Australian Standard Time

Reference: 502892