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PhD Student
Ph.D. Scholarship – Nano-bioengineering research – ARC Discovery Project Full-time
Ph.D. Scholarship – Nano-bioengineering research – ARC Discovery Project
Open to Domestic & International Students
Prof. Matt Trau lab at The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, invites applications for a Ph.D. position in nano-bioengineering research. The successful candidate will work on projects investigating the nanoscopic forces-driven selection of protein/peptide binders from diverse display libraries.
About the Project
The ARC Discovery Project, led by Prof. Matt Trau, Dr. Selvakumar Edwardraja and Dr. Christopher Howard, aims to develop a novel biopanning platform technology for the rapid selection of high-value target binding molecules from diverse display libraries using an electrically activated nanofluidic chip coated with the target. The project will use the concepts of nanotechnology, biologics and physical chemistry, namely AC-Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) nanoscopic forces to drive the selection of target binding molecules during biopanning. The outcomes of this project are expected to significantly impact drug discovery and diagnostics development and research by providing a generic tool for antibody discovery through a modernized biopanning process.
It provides an excellent opportunity for the Ph.D. candidate to work on the exciting interdisciplinary science, and get trained in state-of-the-art technologies using advanced techniques including nanofabrication of chips, display library preparation, molecular evolution, nanopore sequencing, protein expression and purification, binding kinetics and X-ray crystallography.
We are looking for a highly motivated student with a strong background in nanotechnology, biotechnology, molecular biology and biochemistry. Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree with Honours, Master of Science, MPhil or equivalent. Good communication skills, scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for research in nano-bioengineering are essential.
Applications will be judged on a competitive basis taking into account the applicant’s
- previous academic record,
- publication record,
- honours and awards, and
- employment history.
A working knowledge of molecular biology, protein expression and purification would be of benefit to someone working on this project. The applicant will demonstrate academic achievement in the field of biochemistry and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of protein library display and bioconjugation is highly desirable.
AIBN is a large and research-intensive unit at the University of Queensland, one of Australia’s most prestigious universities. Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and offers a mild subtropical climate, vibrant cultural life, plenty of outdoor activities and native wildlife.
Scholarship value
The project is funded by the Australian Research Council. As a scholarship recipient, you’ll receive
- living stipend of $28,854 per annum tax-free (2022 rate), indexed annually
- tuition fees covered
- single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Supervisor
Prof. Matt Trau
http://researchers.uq.edu.au/research-project/52085
Application
If interested, please send your CV, academic record/grade transcripts and a short cover letter to Prof. Matt Trau by email (m.read@uq.edu.au) with ‘ARC-DP PhD Application’ in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until 22nd August 2022.
If you are the successful candidate, you must commence by Research Quarter 1, 2023. You should submit the application by 30th September (3 months prior to the research quarter commencement date).
- Last commencement date for international students: 14 January
- Last commencement date for domestic students: 31 January
The agreed start date will be specified in your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is used for Student visa applications and is recorded with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
How to apply
You apply for this project as part of your PhD program application from the link in the Apply section.