Jobs in Parasitology

Murdoch University

PhD Studentship: Functional Proteomics of Giardia

Funding Bodies: ARC / Proteomics International

Scholarship Description: A PhD scholarship is now available to join an international research group applying the latest proteomic technologies in studies on the intriguing and enigmatic protozoan parasite Giardia. Funding is available from a successful ARC Linkage application and Proteomics International. Proteomics International is one of Australia's leading biodiscovery companies with a focus on proteins, peptides and biomarkers. The PhD student project will provide a unique mix of industry experience and work within an academic environment under the guidance of experienced supervisors.

Background and project outline: Giardia is the most common intestinal protozoan parasite of humans and many other animals, including pets and livestock. It is a cause of diarrhoeal disease and failure to thrive, particularly in children where the impact of infection may be particularly severe in disadvantaged communities, and impairs production in sheep and cattle. Giardia is also of evolutionary and biological significance in terms of understanding the origin of higher animals as well as fundamental questions about the parasitic way of life.

This project will compare proteins from a variety of well characterised isolates of Giardia and using the available genomic database, identify proteins associated with disease processes and host infectivity as well as proteins of practical value such as drug targets and diagnostic markers.

The studentship will be based at the School of Veterinary Biology and Biomedical Science at Murdoch University but will work closely with other members of the research team at Curtin University, Proteomics International and the Universities of Calgary and Kent.

The studentship is available immediately for a duration of three years. The stipend is $26,669 pa, tax free. The scholarship is open to Australian and New Zealand citizens and permanent residents. The successful applicant will have an honours degree, upper IIA minimum, or research masters in a relevant discipline.

For more project information contact Professor Andrew Thompson on (08) 9 360 2466/2428 or email an application, including a full CV and an introductory letter describing any relevant experiences that would make you a suitable candidate, together with contact details for two referees, to Prof Thompson at: a.thompson@murdoch.edu.au