PhD studentship in stroke research: studying aspects of how intracranial pressure elevation and cerebrospinal fluid change after ischaemic stroke

We invite applications from motivated domestic and international graduates to undertake a PhD/Higher Degree by Research (HDR) to study aspects of how intracranial pressure elevation and cerebrospinal fluid change after ischaemic stroke. The study will fall within a program of work within our laboratory, in which we aim to elucidate the mechanisms causing transient intracranial pressure elevation following ischaemic stroke and how this rise in pressure alters blood flow to vulnerable brain regions and secondary infarct expansion. We also aim to evaluate novel interventions that may halt these processes in preclinical stroke models such as short-duration therapeutic hypothermia.

This project will be carried out at the University of Newcastle (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gX9pRWwuxjI) and the Hunter Medical Research Institute building (located on the John Hunter Hospital Campus) as part of the Translational Stroke Research Group, under the supervision of Prof Neil Spratt, Dr Adjanie Patabendige and A/Prof Rohan Walker. The student will develop a very broad range of technical skills including preclinical stroke models, advanced microsurgical skills, biological imaging, and potentially cell culture and electrophysiology. They will join a team undertaking an array of preclinical and clinical research in this field and will have access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment, exceptional mentoring opportunities, and a rich research environment at the University of Newcastle.

Selection criteria
We are seeking applications from individuals who have completed, or are shortly expected to complete, an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science, Medicine or an equivalent degree. Applicants should have strong work ethics, and communication and teamwork skills. Applicants are required to have a GPA of at least 5.25 out of 7, first class or second class upper honours degree. Experience in research methodology is desirable. Strong proficiency in English is essential – scores 7 or above on IELTS; or 94 overall or above on TOFEL are required for eligibility.

Application process
Interested applicants should send an email expressing their interest to [Email Address Removed]
Please attach the following to your email. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities
• CV including names and contact details of two referees
• Scanned evidence of your academic transcript
• Documented evidence of English proficiency (not applicable to native English speakers)
NOTE: The candidates must commence their candidature by November 2018.

All applicants will receive automated confirmation that the documents have been received. Due to the large number of applications received, only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Processing of documentation by the University of Newcastle (UoN) will take a minimum of two months prior to an offer of enrolment being issued. Note the UoN will require official or certified copies of the successful applicant’s academic transcript prior to an official certificate of enrolment (CoE) being issued. After the CoE has been issued, international students must apply to the Australian Government for a student travel visa that will allow them enter the country to undertake their PhD.

For further information please contact Dr Adjanie Patabendige.
Email: [Email Address Removed]
Phone: (+61) 02 4921 7856