Project Description

The Synthetic Physiology Laboratory at Flinders University (Adelaide, Australia) is advertising a full-time funded PhD project. The laboratory applies bioengineering/synthetic biology to understand and ultimately treat human disease. Further information about the Synthetic Physiology laboratory can be found on this website: http://www.janovjak-lab.com/ and http://researchnow.flinders.edu.au/en/persons/harald-janovjak.

In this project the laboratory aims to develop a next-generation genetic technology to study enzymes and transmembrane transporters from bacteria to alga. This technology will enable identifying the molecular function of valuable proteins on an unprecedented scale (e.g., for the first time on a genome-wide ‘omics’ scale). Methods applied during this project include high-throughput gene engineering, next-generation sequencing, in vitro translation and functional assays. For further information about the project, please contact Prof Harald Janovjak (see below for contact information).

This project will focus on establishing the next-generation technology by combining bioengineering/synthetic biology and cell biology as well as on applying the technology to study microbial, algal and human metabolism.

This project will be conducted at Flinders University (Bedford Park, SA) under the supervision of Prof Harald Janovjak. It includes opportunities to participate in national and international conferences and overseas research collaboration (Germany, USA).

Funding Information

The provided scholarship includes:

• A stipend valued at least $30,000 per annum (tax free) awarded for 3 1/2 years; with additional top-up scholarships valued at least $5,000, and
• A Research Training Program Fee Offset Scholarship to cover tuition fees for Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens and permanent residents.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the award of a scholarship applicants must:

• Be an Australian citizen; or a New Zealand citizen; or have already been granted permanent resident status of Australia; and
• Meet PhD admission requirements, including an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification, including a research component of at least 6 months full-time study achieving Distinction (75%); or including evidence of research experience; and
• Be available to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in 2022.
• Experience with biology laboratory methods (e.g., bacterial and mammalian cell culture) is desired but not required. Students with a background in biology, physics, chemistry or engineering are encouraged to apply.

Please be advised this is a Funded PhD Project available to students living in Australia.

Application Process

The application for this project and admission to a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) are separate processes.

Interested candidates should first send an expression of interest to Prof Harald Janovjak ([email protected]). Please state “EOI PhD project” in the subject of the email and please include the following:

• A cover letter that outlines your research interests and/or your motivation for pursuing a PhD; and
• A curriculum vitae, including any work and/or research experience; and
• Copies of academic transcripts; and
• Contact details of two references.

Applicants will be shortlisted as soon as applications are received. The successful candidate will ideally begin by the first half 2022, but this is subject to negotiation.

The applicant that is successful will then apply for admission to a relevant HDR at Flinders University with reference to this award.

Only eligible applicants will be notified of application outcomes.