Using immune cells to combat obesity

UNSW is now accepting expression of interest for the next round of Scientia PhD Scholarships, including our project:

Using immune cells to combat obesity

These are exciting four-year scholarships to start in 2020 with full fees covered, a generous stipend, and career development funds.

Scheme URL: https://www.scientia.unsw.edu.au/scientia-phd-scholarships
Application closing date: 12 July 2019
Location: University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Obesity is a global health problem. It has been recently discovered that humans have “beige” adipocytes that specialise in burning fat. Our team has identified signals from immune cells that stimulate fat burning in these adipocytes. We hypothesise that these signals can be used in a therapeutic setting to promote fat loss. This project will combine cell biology, genetics, molecular biology and immunology approaches and will utilise transgenic animal models, and state-of-the-art techniques including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. The candidate for this project will work under the supervision of an experienced team to help uncover new therapeutic strategies to reverse obesity.

IDEAL CANDIDATE:
The ideal candidate for this scholarship will have an undergraduate qualification majoring in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry or genetics. Ideally, applicants will also have practical research experience in molecular biology, cell culture and rodent handling techniques. We are seeking applicants who are self-motivated and enthusiastic about research, with a thirst for knowledge.

SUPERVISORY TEAM:
Dr Kate Quinlan – Science: Biotechnology & Biomolecular Sciences
A/Prof Kyle Hoehn – Science: Biotechnology & Biomolecular Sciences
Prof Merlin Crossley – Science: Biotechnology & Biomolecular Sciences

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete an expression of interest at: https://www.scientia.unsw.edu.au/scientia-phd-scholarships/using-immune-cells-combat-obesity

The strongest expressions will receive an invitation to submit a full application to the scholarship competition.

About the School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences:
The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences is one of the largest and most prestigious schools of scientific research and teaching in Australia. Research in the School ranges from human bacterial pathogens, hepatitis viruses, tissue engineering, cancer, cell biology, genetics and bioinformatics to functional genomics and extremophiles. Our staff have an international reputation for research excellence and have established collaborative links with industry and other research institutions in Australia and overseas.

About UNSW Sydney:
UNSW Sydney is a powerhouse of cutting-edge research, teaching and innovation. UNSW is one of the top 100 universities in the world, with more than 59,000 students and a 7,000-strong research community. Located in Sydney, Australia’s largest city, the University was established in 1949 with a unique focus on the scientific, technological and professional disciplines. UNSW is committed to making a difference by focusing on areas critical to the future. Pioneering research and sustained innovation are addressing some of the most important issues of today – from climate change and renewable energies to lifesaving medical treatments and breakthrough technologies. In the social sciences, UNSW research informs policy and expert commentary in issues facing society, ranging from human rights and constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians to public health and population ageing. UNSW offers an extensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs.

CONTACT:
To discuss the project and related opportunities, please contact Kate Quinlan ([Email Address Removed]).