Summary
We are seeking motivated PhD candidates for a competitively funded project in the Greening Lab at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. This project will employ cutting-edge technologies to investigate Mycobacterium persistence in low pH environments. As part of our growing, dynamic team, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with academic and industry professionals on a national and international scale, promoting growth, partnership, and innovation. The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Gaofeng Ni in collaboration with Professor Chris Greening at Monash University and Professor Jianhua Guo at The University of Queensland.
Background and aims
Mycobacteria are a group of bacteria renowned for their exceptional metabolic flexibility and robust survival skills. Among the most widespread microorganisms, they are abundant in soil, aquatic, and industrial environments, but also include obligate pathogens of humans and animals. While our laboratory has revealed new aspects of how mycobacteria adapt to starvation and hypoxia, little is known about how they adapt to low pH.
This intensive yet rewarding PhD project aims to investigate the physiology and biochemistry of Mycobacterium in low pH conditions. Our primary objectives include understanding how these bacteria obtain energy for growth, withstand adverse conditions, and shape the environment they inhabit. This knowledge will enhance our understanding of this group of microorganisms in environmental, medical, and industrial contexts. Moreover, the findings of this project may inspire innovative biotechnologies - for instance, those that could reduce the energy demands of urban water systems.
In our team, you'll be part of a diverse, stimulating group of scientists who are passionately committed to scientific discovery, translational action, and the growth and well-being of each team member. If you're driven by scientific curiosity and a desire to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Requirements
- First class Honours or Master’s equivalent
- Experience in relevant fields including microbiology, ecology, biochemistry, evolutionary biology, computational biology, etc
- Previously experience in isolation and cultivation of microorganisms is desired
- Previous laboratory and/or computational research experience desired
- Students with first-author papers in Q1 journals are likely to be especially competitive
- IELTS score of 6.5 average or above in all four categories or equivalent
The Greening Lab’s profile can be viewed here: http://www.greeninglab.com/
Monash University PhD admission criteria and application process can be found here: https://www.monash.edu/graduate-research/study/apply
Please send EOI to gaofeng.ni@monash.edu
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