The project seeks to study the ability of ESKAPE bacterial pathogens in mixed-species biofilm consortium to evolve adaptation phenomena to multi-targeting nanoparticles, now among the most important alternative antimicrobials. Using cutting-edge microscopy and molecular biology techniques, the project aims to understand how nanoparticle penetrate the biofilm protective polymer layers to then target the mixed-species bacterial biomass structures underneath, and in turn, how the bacteria evolve defence mechanisms to adapt to the complex antimicrobial activities. Pathogens commonly grow as mixed-species consortium, and are capable of species-to-species cross-communication, ultimately orchestrating a defence mechanism for protection against antimicrobial targeting. The generated knowledge of the molecular basis of the adaptation phenomena will enable development of technologies to overcome the phenomena and preserve the efficacies of important alternative antimicrobials in this era of increasing antibiotic resistance.
Eligibility
Applicants can be International or domestic student (either permanent Australian residents or New Zealand citizens). To be eligible for this application, applicants must have completed a UTS recognised degree in
• MSc Research or MSc Coursework with a research thesis of at least 6 months,
• or Bachelor Honours degree with 1st Class, or 2nd Class Division 1, or division 1 honours, or an equivalent or higher qualification,
• or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate research studies.
International students
Visa requirement: To obtain a student visa to study in Australia, international students must enrol full time and on campus. Australian student visa regulations also require international students studying on student visas to complete the course within the standard full-time duration.
Selection process
A background expertise in bacterial culturing, microscopy, cellular assays are preferable.
Required
Applicants should send their CV and list of publications to contact person’s email address by the closing date. The application process is currently open and will continue to be open until the position has been filled. We highly encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible. Shortlisted candidates will be advised with further details.
For further Information on application essentials please visit UTS Graduate Research applications.
Not eligible for this scholarship ?
We offer a fully funded scholarship, studentship and award at university, faculty and department level to support both Domestic and Overseas students.
For more information, visit UTS Science Faculty Research Projects or search in UTS Scholarship search tool to find out what you may be eligible for.
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