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PhD Scholarship - Bioinformatics, Cancer Genomics : Brisbane, Australia
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 270 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 interrogating cancer genomes using various bioinformatics approaches.
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. In addition, it causes other forms of genomic instability, such as DNA damage and structural chromosomal abnormalities. The goal of this project is to identify novel genes, proteins, mutations and/or biomarkers for different types of genomic instability, such as such chromosome instability and DNA damage. Specifically, this will involve using a variety of bioinformatics tools and cancer genome datasets.
The Person
The candidate will have a 1st Class Honours, a Masters or an equivalent degree in bioinformatics or a related field 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. Relevant bioinformatics experience, particularly in using R language, is highly desirable.
Remuneration
The base stipend will be at the rate of AU$25,392.00 (2014 rate) per annum tax-free for three years with the possibility of a six month extension in approved circumstances.
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
Applications can only be considered if they are:
- Submitted through the institute’s website (http://jobs.uq.edu.au/caw/en/job/496280/), and
- Include each of the following three documents: Cover letter, CV/Resume and Academic Records (with GPA scores/grades).
Also, please clearly describe your level of experience using R programming language. Thank you.
Application closing date
10 September 2014 11:55pm E. Australia Standard Time…
Don't forget to mention Naturejobs when applying.
Job details
Employer:The University of Queensland
Website:http://jobs.uq.edu.au/caw/en/...
Location:University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
Expires:September 10, 2014
Job type:PhD Studentship
Salary:$25,000
Qualifications:Postgraduate - Master's degree
Employment type:Contract
Job hours:Full-time