Degree type
PhD
Closing date
25 September 2023
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
Generation of cell-type specific data from stem cell-derived brain organoids is limited to RNAseq (e.g. scRNA-seq), or to technologies that require extensive isolation of different cell populations using FACS. There is currently limited data about the proteome of particular cell types from organoids models because they require isolation through FACS. Here we propose an alternative approach that involves direct metabolic labelling of proteins as they are translated in a manner that enables ‘click chemistry’ pull down and proteomics. We will edit the endogenous alleles of canonical cell type marker genes, such that methionine-tRNA synthetase (MarsL274G) is expressed in a cell type-specific manner. This project is initially focused on technology development, and will then apply the newly developed technology to investigate cell-autonomous and non cell-autonomous contributions to neurodegenerative diseases with a particular emphasis on lysosomal storage disorders. Applicants with interests in gene editing, stem cell biology, and bioinformatics/proteomics are encouraged to apply.
Primary Supervisor
Meet A/Prof Tony CookFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $31,500 per annum (2023 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applications are open to Domestic/ International/ Onshore applicants
- Applications are open to applications from neuroscience/cell biology/molecular biology disciplines or similar background only
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Strong communication skills
- Strong record keeping skills
- Familiar with PC2 laboratory research
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Experience in contemporary cell-based techniques, particularly iPSC culture and differentiation, and/or CRISPR/Cas gene editing
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact A/Prof Tony Cook to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 25 September 2023.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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