PhD Scholarships in Genetics and Drug Discovery (Human diseases, Zebrafish, Medicine, Technology, Pharma)

PhD positions/scholarships – Molecular Biology, Disease Modelling and Drug Discovery.

About Griffith University

Griffith University is a progressive, values-led university dedicated to learning, leadership, and innovation. This is your chance to help us achieve our vision to transform lives and add to human knowledge and understanding in a way that creates a future that benefits all.

Since opening in 1975, Griffith has grown from one campus and 451 students to become a comprehensive, multi-campus institution, with 50,000 students and more than 200,000 graduates.

About the Positions

We have fantastic opportunities for PhD applications and scholarships. Our group uses a combination of state-of-the-art genetic, microscopy, engineering/screening techniques, and sequencing approach to i) establish innovative zebrafish models of human diseases, ii) investigate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms and iii) run drug discovery programs (https://giacomottolab.com/). We are also working with the pharma industry for toxicology and drug discovery programs. 

We are currently working on three main projects: 

•Project 1 Modelling neurodegeneration in the zebrafish and drug discovery.

This project aims at establishing innovative zebrafish neurodegenerative models. In synergy with the team in place, the candidate will learn and use state-of-the-art genome editing tools (optimised CRISPR/Cas9 approach) to manipulate selected genes of interest recently confirmed or predicted to be involved in different types of neurodegenerations. The candidate will further use the developed model to investigate the biology of neurodegeneration and work with other team members to establish drug screening programs.

•Project 2 Zebrafishing for novel bioactive molecules.

Whilst many current drugs are derived from nature, many more bioactive molecules have still to be discovered.  To help speed up discovery, we will develop i) a unique multipurpose zebrafish model combining different transgenic fluorescent markers/sensors and ii) automated assays based on high-content imaging systems to screen diverse chemical libraries for new and innovative bioactive molecules. This project will be highly collaborative and associated with the industry. It will also work in synergy with our other basic research projects.

•Project 3 Unveiling the normal and pathogenic role of neurexins in the developing brain.

Neurexins are a family of genes that have been associated with several neurological diseases. We have generated a series of innovative zebrafish CRISPR-mutants enabling to better understand the role of these genes in the developing brain. We will combine transcriptomics studies, high-end imaging/microscopy and behavioural approaches to highlight their critical function in brain development and plasticity.

About You

The appointees will match at some of the following:

•First-class Honours degree or hold equivalent qualifications in Genetics/Neuroscience or relevant and/or substantial research experience in an appropriate sector.

•First or co-author on at least 1x peer-reviewed published manuscript.

•Demonstrate outstanding writing and communication skills.

•Demonstrate ability to work well as part of a team.

•Open to constructive criticism. 

•Ideally, the applicant would be familiar with the zebrafish animal model. 

•She/He would have started working on similar projects aiming at studying gene function and accumulated significant experience in molecular biology, transgenesis and/or microscopy.

•Interested in collaborations with the pharma industry.

International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Selected applicants will need to show they meet:

•A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0

•OR a minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE

•OR a score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

What we offer

A PhD stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum will be provided to the successful candidates for up to 3 years with 1x 6 months possible extension, plus research support. The Tuition fees will be waived for the same period. The applicant will also benefit from a relocation allowance. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information. 

How to apply

Interested applicants should submit an expression of interest (EOI) as soon as possible to Dr Jean

Giacomotto ([email protected]) containing:

•Brief statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship

•A resume (CV)

•Full degree transcripts

•A minimum of 2x references/referees to contact