New antimicrobial agents for biofilm-related infections

The adhesion of bacteria to surfaces and their subsequent ability to aggregate into colonies called biofilms is a significant problem in healthcare systems around the world. Bacterial biofilms cause the majority of persistent and chronic infections, including those associated with medical implants and diseases such as cystic fibrosis. As biofilms display an inherent resistance to antimicrobial agents, there is a strong need to design new agents which eliminate bacterial colonisation and prevent subsequent biofilm formation. This project focuses on designing new antimicrobial agents which act through antivirulence strategies to combat biofilm-related infections.

Two PhD positions are available for this project. Both will involve organic synthesis, purification and characterization of new anti-biofilm agents. These PhD positions would suit candidates with a background in organic chemistry.

Interested candidates should directly contact A/Prof Kathryn Fairfull-Smith by e-mail: [Email Address Removed]


Funding Notes:
The two PhD scholarships are stipends valued at ~25,500 AUD tax free per year for 3 years. Successful candidates from outside Australia will need to secure a scholarship to cover tuition fees at Queensland University of Technology. These international fee scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis by the University and only applicants with a strong academic performance (1st class honours, masters or MChem degrees) will be considered. Demonstrated research excellence indicators such as peer-reviewed publications are desirable but not essential.

References
1. C. De la Fuente-Núňez, F. Reffuveille, K. E. Fairfull-Smith and R. E. W. Hancock, Antimicrob. Agents Chemo., 2013, 57, 4877.