Cellular and Genetics Medicine Unit
School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales
PhD Scholarships
The Cellular and
Genetic Medicine Unit is seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic postgraduate
students for the following projects in 2011:
1. Williams Syndrome – the genetic and cellular basis of human mood and behaviour
This research project is aimed at determining the genetic regulation of human mood and behaviour by revealing the function of two critical genes – Gtf2i and Gtf2ird1 - responsible for the prominent behavioural and anxiety features of the human disorder Williams syndrome. Our laboratory discovered Gtf2ird1 and has made inroads into identifying impact on behaviour in knockout mice as well as interacting protein partners. In this project, a strong emphasis will be on discovering the molecular role of the proteins encoded by these genes within neurons.
Methods: knockout & transgenic mice, brain histology/histochemistry, microarray analysis, chromatin immunoprecipitation, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, yeast 2-hybrid analysis, cultures of cell lines and primary mouse neurons, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence/live cell microscopy, behavioural and electrophysiological collaborative studies with UNSW and Howard Florey researchers.
2. Diabetes & Obesity – the role of the actin cytoskeleton
The objective of this research project is to define the mechanism/s underpinning the regulation of glucose homeostasis and fat cell proliferation by the actin cytoskeleton, two processes that are central to the development of diabetes and obesity. We have discovered different actin filament populations in cells defined by specific tropomyosins that regulate glucose transport as well as cell proliferation, in particular in fat cells. In this project, the molecular and cellular processes responsible for these effects will be determined. Drugs specifically designed to impact on these filament populations will be tested.
Methods: knockout and transgenic mice, metabolic and physiological measurements (e.g., glucose uptake, CLAMS), cultures of cell lines and primary mouse cells, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence/live cell/TIRF microscopy.
Award: The scholarships
are valued at $25,000 per annum (tax exempt) and may be renewed for up to
three years, subject to satisfactory progress.
Eligibility: All applicants
must hold an honours degree or equivalent in a related biological science (e.g.
Biochemistry, Genetics, Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology) and be Australian
or New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent resident. Applicants should have
a particular interest in the project on offer and ideally have some experience
in cell culture and molecular biology techniques. The Award will be based on
standard APA guidelines.
Application Process:Applicants should include the following documents
• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Copy of an academic transcript
• Names and contact details (email address and phone number) for at least 3 referees.
All applications should be emailed to Prof. Edna Hardeman (e.hardeman@unsw.edu.au).
