We seek a PhD student to work in applied mathematics and mathematical biology under the supervision of Professor Matthew (Mat) Simpson and Associate Professor Pascal R. Buenzli.  The project will focus on developing new mathematical models of biological tissue growth with a focus on the impact of mechanics.

Experimental evidence highlights the role of mechanics in the physiology of wound healing, tissue growth and tumour growth.   Tissue elasticity and surface tension are key drivers of both normal and abnormal outcomes.  Mathematical models based on long-established theory of elasticity can explain many observations, however these models can be difficult to interpret and relate to biological observations.  In contrast, this project will focus on developing biologically-motivated discrete simulation approaches that are more naturally motivated by, and related to experimental observations. We will provide mathematical insight by developing approximate continuum limits of the new discrete models to produce new differential equation-based mathematical models.

This project will lead to simple but realistic mathematical descriptions of cell and tissue mechanics, and to apply these mathematical models to experiments relating to tissue growth, wound healing and tumour growth. The project will involve model formulation, developing and applying computational models to problems from the life sciences, obtaining numerical simulation of discrete and continuum models, and the formal derivation of novel continuum-limit descriptions of those models.

The successful applicant will be based in the School of Mathematical Sciences ( https://www.qut.edu.au/about/faculty-of-science/school-of-mathematical-sciences ) at QUT. The applicant will join other PhD candidates in our research group who are working on related projects in mathematical biology.

Applications

Applicants should hold a first class Honours degree or equivalent (e.g. a research Master’s degree) in applied mathematics, physics, engineering or computer science. Strong academic performance, excellent written communication skills, and expertise in computational techniques (Julia, Python, C++) are essential. Training in implementing numerical methods for solving partial differential equations is essential.

The applicant must be eligible to enrol in a PhD at Queensland University of Technology ( https://www.qut.edu.au/courses/doctor-of-philosophy ). A tax-free scholarship of approximately AU$34000pa for full-time students will support living costs for up to 3 years.

How to apply

Submit your application by email to [email protected] Your application will include:

• A cover letter by the applicant (maximum 2 pages)
• An up-to-date CV indicating education, prior research experience and skills
• Full academic transcripts
• Contact details and e-mail addresses of two referees

Contact

For further information please contact Professor Matthew Simpson < [email protected] > and copy your correspondence to Associate Professor Pascal Buenzli < [email protected] >