We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to join the One Health Laboratory of Infectious Disease at Griffith University, led by A/Prof Lara Herrero (MD, MPH, PhD). The primary focus of this role is to identify new host targets for the rapid development of innovative therapies against zoonotic arboviruses of pandemic potential. This project includes techniques such as Virology, Immunology, Cellular & Molecular Biology. Success in this role requires collaboration with national and international experts in virology and immunology.
Mosquito-transmitted viruses (arboviruses) cause a range of clinical manifestations including encephalitis, arthritis, arthralgia and myalgia. Viruses in this group include the arthritogenic chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Ross River virus (RRV) and the deadly Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV). With climate change and increasing globalisation, emerging arboviruses such as JEV, CHIKV and RRV are all examples of viruses which could follow Zika and be the next pandemic. Combatting mosquito-borne diseases is one of our most pressing global health challenges. We recently demonstrated that viral-induced disease is largely driven by activation of the host innate inflammatory response. We now aim to define the mechanisms underlying this inflammatory-mediated pathology. This project (backed by a prestigious NHMRC Synergy grant) will identify new host targets for the rapid development of innovative therapies against arboviruses of pandemic potential. The successful candidate will be researching at the Gold Coast.
About us
The Herrero Group utilises a One Health approach to make advancements in understanding and treating vector borne diseases, which combines field work, modelling and lab-based research. The group have made unique discoveries around pathogen dissemination/transmission in the arthropod vector and pathogenesis in the human host. Additionally, using primary human cells and mouse model of disease, they are assessing new treatment strategies for viral inflammatory disease.
The Institute for Glycomics, established in 2000, was so named due to its multidisciplinary research approach centred around ‘Glycomics’.Our unique research expertise makes us the only institute of its kind in Australia and one of only a handful in the world. We strive to be a world leader in the discovery and development of next generation drugs, vaccines and diagnostics in the fight against diseases of global impact.
About you
The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will be able to carry out research independently You will have evidence of a passion for self-improvement and scientific achievement with a strong desire to undertake research in the field of viral infectious disease.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Policy. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
- Desired background in Virology, Immunology, Cellular & Molecular Biology
About the scholarship
The 2022 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $28,854 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
What we offer
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
Techniques: mouse model of viral disease, clinical disease and joint hypersensitivity measurement, ELISA, real-time PCR, viral plaque assays, flow cytometry, histopathology, western blotting, immunohistochemistry.
Further info
For project related enquiries please contact:
A/Professor Lara Herrero
Email: [Email Address Removed]
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Phone: (07) 3735 3817
Email: [Email Address Removed]
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to ‘A/Prof Lara Herrero [Email Address Removed] containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Brief research proposal
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Names of two referees
Expressions of interest are currently open for this position.
Once selected, the preferred applicant will be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
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