Nutritional Physiology in Drosophila - understanding the role of nutrients in disease, lifelong health and ageing

PhD Student Position: Nutritional Physiology in Drosophila
Monash University, Australia

A PhD position is available under the supervision of Dr Matthew Piper at Monash University (http://piperlab.org/) (http://tiny.cc/bd867y), School of Biological Sciences, in Melbourne, Australia.

I am looking for motivated, talented and enthusiastic PhD students with an interest in nutrition and genetics to investigate how these factors interact to modify health and fitness.

PROJECT DETAILS:
Drosophila is a valuable model for understanding how nutrition alters physiology and the mechanistic basis of health and disease. Our work has shown that subtle changes in nutrient balance can alter reproduction, behaviour, health and longevity. However, the mechanistic bases of these interactions are not understood. Work in my lab employs precise manipulations of Drosophila diets to dissect correlated phenotypes and so establish how nutrient signalling modifies health status. Such understanding is the first step towards untangling the complex relationship between diet, health and lifespan in a wide variety of organisms.

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS:
We have a fully-funded scholarship available for domestic (Australian) and international students. The 3.5 year award includes all course fees, ~$26,000 AUD per year tax-free stipend and an allowance for conference attendance. (Health insurance is also covered for international students).

MONASH UNIVERSITY, School of Biological Sciences:
Monash is a member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of top Australian universities recognized for their excellence in teaching and research. The School of Biological Sciences is a dynamic unit with strengths in ecology, genetics and physiology (monash.edu/science/about/schools/biological-sciences/). The University is located near Melbourne, one of the most liveable cities in the world and a cultural and recreational hub.


APPLICATION PROCESS:
Interested candidates must complete the online questionnaire: https://goo.gl/RPRKzc

Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree with first-class Honours, and/or a distinction in a research Masters degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., genetics, insect nutrition & physiology). Review of applications will begin immediately and short-listed candidates will be contacted for more information and invited to interview.