STUDENTSHIPS
Ph.D. Scholarships Available 2020
Ph.D. scholarships are available to start work, in 2020, in Professor Lee Smith’s research group in their brand new lab in Newcastle, Australia. The Ph.D. projects will utilise unique and cutting-edge transgenic mouse techniques to investigate the regulation of androgen biosynthesis and androgen action under normal and pathological conditions.
The candidate will join a growing multi-disciplinary team, consisting of experts in the field. Applicants should have a strong work ethic, self-motivation, developed communication, and teamwork skills.
We are seeking applications from individuals who have completed first-class or second-class upper honours degree in a Biomedical Science or equivalent degree with laboratory experience.
Projects available:
Targeting Pharmaceuticals and Nanoparticle Gene-Therapy Vectors to Treat Adrenal Pathology
The current treatment paradigm of systemic, lifelong suppression or replacement of adrenal function has remained largely unchanged in decades, treating symptoms, often with significant side-effects or acute crisis if not managed correctly, yet in many cases offering no possibility of a cure. This project will demonstrate technology advances to support the rapid production of urgently needed adrenal disease models, while simultaneously developing novel drug and gene therapy approaches for their treatment.
Closing date: 31 December 2020
Characterising the Role of the Glucocorticoid Receptor in Gonadal Function through Conditional
Gene-Targeting
This project will both increase our understanding of androgen signaling control within the reproductive system and have wider implications for other body systems, with obvious human relevance. The combination of these factors means this project is likely to produce a series of high impact publications.
Closing date: 31 December 2020
The Importance of Classical Versus Backdoor Androgen Production Pathways in Masculinisation, Fertility, and Lifelong Male Health
Male development, fertility, and lifelong health are all androgen-dependent. Perturbed androgen action at any stage of life significantly impacts the quality of life, and low androgens are an independent risk factor contributing to an early death. The aim of the project is to understand the regulation of androgen production and identify factors that work to support this regulation. The final goal is to refine androgen-based therapies that support wellbeing through the course of life.
Closing date: 31 December 2020
Developing Alternative Treatments For Male Reproductive And Endocrine Disorders Using Deliverable Transgenics As Gene Therapy
This project focuses on the development of tools and technologies specifically targeting the cells of the testis. This project will provide insight into potential developments for the treatment of endocrine disorders such as hypogonadism as well as having implications for research both on male reproduction and on wider biological systems.
Closing date: 31 December 2020
