Funding for: UK Students, EU Students, International Students
Salary: Scholarships comprise of a Tuition Fee Offset and a Living Allowance Stipend at full-time stipend rate of AU$32,000 per annum (in 2023 tax exempt for up to 4 years – indexed annually).
Supervisory Team: Dr Ole Tietz, Prof Lars Ittner
Project Description
Considering a career at the intersection of Chemistry and Neuroscience research? Did you recently or are you about complete your studies in Chemistry or related field and were thinking about a PhD? Want to acquire a Master of Research along the way? – The Dementia Research Centre (DRC) is seeking PhD candidates to work on cutting edge Protein Chemistry and investigate the molecular origins of Alzheimer’s Disease. Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) govern the function of a variety of disease associated proteins and convey pathological pathways – these modifications can be introduced through chemical synthesis to study their impact on disease progression and rationally design novel therapies. The tau protein is central to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease and PTMs of tau remain poorly understood. This project aims at deciphering the roles of different PTMs in tau biology and disease using a wide range of technologies, including macromolecular chemistry and CRISPR genome editing. This project will leverage findings to develop the next generation of tau targeted therapeutics to treat Alzheimer’s Disease. The multidisciplinary research program of the Dementia Research Centre at Macquarie University provides ample opportunities to learn and apply cutting-edge technologies to decipher mechanism in brain function and diseases. Please follow the links for more information on the DRC (https://www.mq.edu.au/research/dementia) and study opportunities in the DRC (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj1qY0cNWF8).
Entry Requirements
We seek highly competitive candidates with an undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering and allied subjects/relevant disciplines. Enthusiasm to work in an interdisciplinary environment with a strong interest in Protein Chemistry, Neurosciences, Drug Development and Alzheimer’s disease is highly desirable. Training in all areas of the PhD and professional development opportunities will be provided.
MQ domestic and international scholarships are available for competitive candidates to undertake a MRes Year 2 + PhD Bundle program or direct entry 3-year PhD program. Excellent candidates may be considered for direct entry into the PhD program in accordance with HDR rules at Macquarie University.
Funding: MQ domestic and international scholarships comprise of Tuition Fee Offset and a Living Allowance Stipend at full-time stipend rate of AU$32,000 per annum (in 2023 tax exempt for up to 4 years – indexed annually).
How to apply
Please send expressions of interest (EOI) including CV and cover letter directly to Dr Ole Tietz ([email protected]). Full application will be required to be submitted by 31 July if shortlisted.