Analysing gene expression in blood cells

About the research project

Blood formation, or haematopoiesis, depends on the precise development of different blood-cell lineages and is controlled by gene activity that varies according to cellular context and cell type. Changes in the expression of genes involved in cell differentiation and development can directly affect the production and function of blood cells. Disruption of this regulatory process can lead to diseases such as autoimmunity or Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes.

Because most clinically measured blood-forming traits show substantial variation and are strongly influenced by genetics, genetic research offers significant opportunities to improve our understanding of human haematopoiesis. This project aims to investigate how genetic variation influences the development of blood-forming cells by identifying the genetic factors that regulate haematopoiesis at single-cell resolution.

The research will combine bioinformatics with laboratory-based experiments. It will involve functionally validating how genetic variants affect transcription from previous eQTL studies that we have conducted. CRISPR screening approaches in cell lines and organoids will be used for this functional validation. These experiments will model the effects of genetic variants on haematopoietic development and help determine their functional consequences. Underlying both autoimmunity and BMFSs is the dysregulation of the immune system. By better understanding the regulation of the immune system we hope to uncover novel drivers of disease that can be developed into drug strategies in patients with dysregulated immune systems.

Primary supervisor

Meet Associate Professor Kirsten Fairfax

Funding

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 funded by University of Tasmania 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.

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:

• Applicants will need to be on campus (UTAS, Hobart, Medical Sciences Precinct) to conduct this PhD.

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:

• Basic tissue culture techniques.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Basic bioinformatics skills (preferably some familiarity with R).

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Associate Professor Kirsten Fairfax 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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