PhD and Masters Opportunity in Gene Therapy, Molecular Biology, and Musculoskeletal Biology at University of Sydney

The University of Sydney's School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering is offering an exciting PhD scholarship opportunity, with the possibility for exceptional candidates to pursue a Masters project. The research focuses on the therapeutic delivery of gene editing enzymes to musculoskeletal tissues, leveraging advanced molecular biology and biomolecular engineering techniques. The project, supervised by Associate Professor Aaron Schindeler, aims to develop and characterise engineered vectors—such as CRISPR nucleases, base editors, and prime editors—delivered via adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors and nanoparticle-based systems. Students will optimise therapeutic payloads for editing efficiency, specificity, and tissue penetration, working with musculoskeletal-derived cell lines and organoid cultures. The research will advance lead candidates to preclinical testing in murine models of muscle or bone disease, integrating molecular endpoints (on-target editing, off-target profiling) and functional recovery metrics (imaging, biomechanics, histology). This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated students interested in translational gene therapy, molecular genetics, or musculoskeletal biology. A strong background in biomolecular engineering or molecular biology, along with attention to detail and teamwork skills, is highly valued. The position is based in Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia, within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Sydney. Funding is available as a PhD scholarship, though specific financial details are not provided in the announcement. Interested candidates should contact Associate Professor Aaron Schindeler by email, providing a detailed CV and publication list to maximize their application outcome. This is a unique chance to contribute to cutting-edge translational science at the interface of gene editing and musculoskeletal medicine.