Jobs in Parasitology

Research Opportunities in Molecular Parasitology
The University of Melbourne

(http://research.vet.unimelb.edu.au/gasserlab/index.html)

Opportunities exist for highly motivated students with experience in molecular biology, and/or bioinformatics, biochemistry, parasitology and/or microbiology, to undertake research in parasite genomics, bioinformatics and biology within the framework of currently funded projects.
We have a number of Honours and PhD projects available for entry in 2011. PhD scholarships will be available to work in the following three areas:

GENOMICS AND GENETICS OF ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS

An opportunity exists in our group for a high caliber PhD student focused on a career in infectious (including zoonotic) diseases. The research will focus on the development and use of molecular tools and will involve field work components. Prior experience in the use of molecular techniques, such as the genomic DNA isolation, polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing, would be advantageous.
Supervisors: Drs Aaron R. Jex and Matt J. Nolan

NEMATODE GENOMICS AND NOVEL DRUG TARGETS

The livestock industries are worth billions of dollars a year, but the many parasites of animals cause substantial losses to producers, the industries and the economy due to the diseases they cause. The control of economically important parasites of livestock has relied largely on the use of chemical compounds (anthelmintics). However, the excessive use of such compounds has led to drug resistance in parasites, such that many treatments are no longer effective. There is a need to develop new compounds. This interdisciplinary project provides the opportunity to work on fundamental aspects of parasite biology and the development of new anti-parasite compounds.
Supervisors: Drs Bronwyn E. Campbell and Cinzia Cantacessi

COMPUTATIONAL STUDIES EXPLORING THE MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PARASITIC WORMS

An opportunity exists for a highly motivated and creative PhD student to work on a project centered on employing genomic and bioinformatic technologies to identify and explore crucial biological pathways in socio-economically important parasitic worms of humans and animals. An improved understanding of parasites and their relationship with their hosts at the molecular level will lead to better strategies for the treatment of emerging and neglected parasitic diseases. A good working knowledge of molecular biological concepts is essential.
Supervisors: Drs Neil D. Young and Robin B. Gasser

Contact: Professor Robin B. Gasser, robinbg@unimelb.edu.au