VACANCIES AND OPPORTUNITIES
POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH
Infectious Disease Research – genomics, bioinformatics and genetics
Advances in genomic and bioinformatic technologies are now providing unique opportunities for global, molecular investigations of major infectious diseases. The advent and integration of high-throughput -omic technologies are revolutionizing the way biology is done, allowing the systems biology of organisms to be explored in great detail. Our research program focuses on exploring the fundamental biology of pathogens/parasites and the diseases that they cause using a range of new technologies, and is focused on developing radically new methods of treatment, diagnosis and control.
Opportunities exist for highly motivated students with experience in molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, systems biology, biochemistry, parasitology and/or microbiology, to undertake research in parasite genomics, bioinformatics and biology within the framework of our current research program. PhD scholarships, for immediate entry, will be available to work in the following three areas:
- 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 that they cause. The treatment and 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. - SYSTEMS BIOLOGY OF PATHOGENS:
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, some of which cause malignant cancers. 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. - WATERBORNE AND ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS:
An opportunity exists or 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 fieldwork 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.
Contact: Professor Robin B. Gasser | [email protected] | www.gasserlab.org