Novel approaches for treating cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of death throughout most of the world, and existing therapeutic options are unsuitable for a large percentage of patients. Our group is exploring new targets in the heart and vessels to develop the next generation of cardiovascular treatments. Recent work from our group shows has identified a potential target: calcium/calmodulin dependent kinase II (CaMKII), a key protein mediator of cardiac and vascular dyfunction. We are seeking motivated students with an interest in cardiovascular physiology to join our team and examine the connection between CaMKII and cardiovascular disease. Projects in our group utilize state-of-the-art techniques and reagents, as well as genetic mouse models not available elsewhere in the world. Candidates with a wide range of interests, including molecular and protein biochemistry, fluorescent imaging, and physiological techniques (ex. echocardiography, force development measurements in isolated fibers, etc.) are encouraged to apply.

Applications to undertake a PhD in Physiology are welcome at any time. Candidates can be of any nationality and must have attained an excellent degree (MSc with significant research component or a 4 years of Bachelors with Honours degree) in biomedical science or a closely-related subject.

1. Applicants are encouraged to first contact the supervisor(s) by email with the following details:
o Your name and country of citizenship
o Your CV
o Certified academic transcript (and, if applicable, an explanation of the content)
o Certified evidence of English language proficiency (eg IELTS or TOEFL results)
o The names of two referees
2. If your application is to be considered, the supervisor will contact you to discuss the next steps, and our Departmental Administrator will check that your documents are complete.
3. Funding: The PhD project will be funded by the University of Otago doctoral scholarship (tuition fees and a tax-free personal allowance of NZD$27,000 pa for 36 month). Successful candidates are expected to apply and be awarded a scholarship.

For further information on research in the Department see our research section at https://www.otago.ac.nz/physiology/research/index.html