Using genomics to explore drug targets in the central nervous system to combat multiple sclerosis progression

About the research project

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune and neurodegenerative condition that is caused by an interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Current therapies used in MS can prevent the infiltration of immune cells into the central nervous system, but do not prevent or reverse the damage caused to the central nervous system or reduce disability accrual. Therapies are urgently needed that target cells in the central nervous system and the processes involved in disease progression. 

This project will use genomic data to identify and shortlist drugs relevant to the key pathological processes that initiate or drive MS. Drug targets with genetic support are more likely to successfully make it into the clinic. However, the genetic component of MS is complex and polygenic, meaning many genes are involved. This project will take an innovative approach to fully realise the potential of genetic risk for MS to inform therapeutic development. This will include the application of state of the art bioinformatics approaches to prioritise therapeutic selection and leveraging our large biobank of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from people with and without MS to evaluate the shortlisted drugs and build the evidence base required to proceed to clinical trials. As iPSCs can be differentiated into a variety of different cell-types that reside in the central nervous system (e.g., neurons and glia), these drugs can be screened to reveal their molecular mechanisms and identify compounds that combat disease associated phenotypes detected in the cells. This interdisciplinary project provides an opportunity to contribute to both the discovery and preclinical characterisation of drug candidates for MS progression, with the goal to reduce the burden of disability for people living with MS. 

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor William Reay

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Multiple Sclerosis Translation of $34,315 per annum 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)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Additional Funding

If successful, applicants will also receive a MS Centre of Research Excellence Top-up top-up scholarship of $7,500 per annum for 1 years. This scholarship is funded from NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Multiple Sclerosis Translation.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for 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:

• An undergraduate degree with honours in any of the following: science, medical science, engineering, psychology, computer science, and/or a masters degree in one of those disciplines.

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:

• Willingness to learn and apply coding.
• Willingness to apply, or learn, various statistical genetics and bioinformatics methods.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Laboratory experience with either in vivo or in vitro methods.
• Experience with statistical genetics and/or functional genomics.
• Experience coding using languages including R and python, with previous experience in a high-performance computing environment also an advantage.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor William Reay to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. 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.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

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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