The impact of MS genetics on the brain

About the research project

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition that leads to oligodendrocyte loss, demyelination, and ultimately neurodegeneration. MS does not have a single cause but results from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental risk factors. Genome wide association studies indicate that genetic variants modify immune cell responses to increase the risk of MS initiation. However, genetic variants may also change the response of central nervous system (CNS) to injury, ultimately promoting MS progression. Our team has recruited families with an unusually high incidence of MS for whole genome sequencing. By comparing the genomes of affected and unaffected family members, we have identified rare genetic variants that associate with MS development, are expressed by cells within the CNS, and are predicted to be biologically impactful. The student undertaking this project will determine how each variant alters protein function, changes signalling within CNS-resident cell types, and contributes to MS pathophysiology. The student working on this project will utilise induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from people with and without MS, including members of high incidence families. The student will differentiate iPSCs and isogenic iPSC lines to generate CNS resident cell types and probe the impact of each variant on cell function. The person undertaking this project will compare the transcriptome and function of cells with and without each variant. This research aims to validate the role of each genetic variant to better understand how genetics drives MS pathophysiology.

Primary supervisor

Meet Professor Kaylene Young

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.

Additional Funding

If successful, applicants will also receive a Centre of MS Research Translation top-up scholarship of $7,500 per annum for 3.5 years. This scholarship is funded from Centre of MS Research 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 first class honours in any of the following: science, medical science, neuroscience, genetics, cell biology and/or a masters degree in one of those disciplines
• 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:

• Willingness to carry out human genetic and stem cell research
• Capacity to keep detailed and accurate records and digital files
• Willingness to work collaboratively within a team

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Laboratory experience in neuroscience working with in vivo or in vitro models of neuroinflammation
• Experience coding using languages including R and python

Application process

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