PhD Scholarship - Neuromuscular Biomechanics

The School of Biomedical Sciences

The University of Queensland School of Biomedical Sciences is a distinguished centre for teaching and research in the academic disciplines of Anatomy, Developmental Biology, Physiology, Pharmacology and Pathology. The School has more than 40 full-time research and teaching staff and is one of the largest Schools of its type in Australia. It has links to other prestigious research centres on the St Lucia campus including the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), the Institute of Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN). Our diverse research provides an exciting environment for national and international research fellows and higher degree students. It is concerned with advancing the understanding of how cellular mechanisms contribute to the function of the human body in health and disease.  Details of the research interests of academic staff may be accessed on the school’s web site at https://biomedical-sciences.uq.edu.au/

The role The Neuromuscular Biomechanics Lab research focuses on using novel musculoskeletal imaging and biomechanical models and simulations to understand the structural properties and mechanical behaviour of muscles and tendons in healthy and diseased populations.

The PhD project will contribute to research that investigates the neuromuscular and biomechanical mechanisms underlying healthy and pathological locomotor function. Research may include, but is not limited to, understanding the effects of ageing and obesity on muscle-tendon properties and associated movement patterns. This research will have direct implications for the development of innovative rehabilitation solutions and wearable technologies targeted at restoring impaired locomotor performance.

The person Applicants should possess an appropriate qualification for entry into the PhD training scheme at University of Queensland.

Essential qualities for candidates include:

• Strong computational and analytical skills in biomechanics
• Experience using biomechanical assessment tools (ultrasound imaging, motion capture systems, force plates, EMG) to quantify human movement.

Preferred qualities for candidates include:

• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with patients, research subjects, team members, and project collaborators.
• Excellent critical thinking skills, ability to work independently
• Research experience and practical knowledge of research principles is required whether through previous internship, work experience, or coursework. 
• Interest or previous experience in medical rehabilitation, motor function, biomechanics, or neurological disabilities.

The opportunity is open to both Australian/New Zealand nationals and international candidates, however exceptional international candidates will be considered (with top-up scholarships available to cover international tuition fees).

The University of Queensland values diversity and inclusion.

Applications are particularly encouraged from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For further information please contact our Australian Indigenous Employment Coordinator at: atsi_recruitment@uq.edu.au  

Applications are also encouraged from women.

Remuneration The stipend is equivalent to the APA rate, $27,082 per annum, (2018 rate, indexed annually). The scholarship will be for three (3) years with the possibility of two six (6)-month extensions and is subject to the UQ Research Scholarship General Conditions. In some cases, a further top-up to this stipend may be available.

Enquiries To discuss this role please contact Dr Taylor Dick, t.dick@uq.edu.au  

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below. All applicants must supply the following documents: a Cover letter (including the names of 3 referees, one of whom should be your immediate/Honours supervisor), a Resume, and a statement describing your interests and why you would be a good fit for the Neuromuscular Biomechanics Lab. To be considered for the role please submit all 3 documents.