The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute (UQDI) was established in 2007 as the sixth research institute of The University of Queensland. The aim of the Institute is to develop a better understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of disease, and to translate that understanding into practical outcomes for patients. Based at the Translational Research Institute (TRI) at the Princess Alexandra Hospital teaching campus in Brisbane, the Institute has almost 200 researchers and students who work closely with clinicians in the areas of cancer, immunology and genomic medicine. UQDI is the largest partner in TRI, and is building major programs in Immunology, Cancer and Genomic Medicine research, with a particular focus on research aimed at development of new treatments. Details of the research interests of academic staff may be accessed on the Institute’s web site at http://www.di.uq.edu.au/research.

The Role
The successful Scholar will pursue a PhD degree in cancer research by conducting interdisciplinary translational cancer research in the laboratory using a variety of experimental methods in the fields of molecular biology, cell biology and genetics.

The Project
During cell division, cells duplicate their chromosomes and then equally distribute them over the daughter cells to produce two identical new cells. Sometimes, cells make mistakes in this process and cancer cells are known to do this at particularly high frequencies. Chromosomes may missegregate to produce two dissimilar daughter cells: one lacking a copy of a chromosome and one carrying an additional copy. This process of chromosome missegregation during cell division is termed chromosome instability. Chromosome instability is one of the most malignant features of cancer cells, because it can cause cancer, it accelerates cancer progression and it is an important mechanism for cancer cells to become resistant to existing cancer therapies. The goals of this project are to better understand the mechanisms that cancer cells use to missegregate chromosomes and to develop a new therapy that specifically targets tumour cells that have abnormal chromosome numbers.

The Person
The candidate will have a 1st Class Honours degree or equivalent in science and a strong motivation to pursue a PhD degree. Prospective students will be provided with assistance to apply for a scholarship. Applicants should have basic knowledge in molecular biology, cell biology and genetics. Laboratory experience in these areas is highly desirable.

Remuneration
The base stipend will be at the rate of AUD$24,653 per annum (2013 rate) tax-free for three years with the possibility of a six month extension in approved circumstances. Top-up salary may be available to suitably qualified candidates.

Enquiries
For further information about the research project, please contact Dr Pascal Duijf (p.duijf@uq.edu.au). For information about applying for a scholarship and for the full terms and conditions, please visit the UQ Graduate School website at http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/how-to-apply.

How to Apply
To be considered, applications should be submitted through the institute’s website (http://uqjobs.uq.edu.au/jobDetails.asp?sJobIDs=494655). Please provide the following documents: Cover letter, Resume, Academic Records and a completed Expression of Interest Form (http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/content/future-students/expression-of-interest.doc).