University of Melbourne
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1 week ago
PhD or Master by Research Opportunity in Smart RNA Switches for Precision RNA Therapeutics The University of Melbourne in Australia
Degree Level
Master's, PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Applicants are automatically considered for a range of scholarships, but some scholarships require a standalone application. No specific stipend, tuition, or funding amount is stated in the post.
Country
Australia
University
University of Melbourne
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About this position
Research Degree Opportunity at The University of Melbourne / Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences.
Project title: Smart RNA switches for precision RNA therapeutics.
This project focuses on RNA therapeutics, smart mRNA, RNA switching, and LNP delivery for applications in cardiovascular diseases and cancers. The research aims to develop logic-gated mRNAs that switch on in target cells and off elsewhere by reading endogenous RNA cues. Students will design, build, and test reporter constructs, including in-silico design of smart mRNAs, selection of cell-type-enriched miRNA targets, RNA editing-based ON logic, and multiplexed logic designs such as AND/OR/AND NOT.
The experimental work includes synthesis of IVT mRNAs encoding reporters, variation of switch design and architecture, formulation of lipid nanoparticles, dose optimisation, and testing in cardiac fibroblasts, endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and selected cancer cell lines. Readouts include expression ratios, kinetics, durability, flow cytometry, imaging, luciferase, and qPCR, with benchmarking against controls. Techniques mentioned include RNA design and IVT, sterile cell culture, LNP handling, high-dimensional flow cytometry, and related molecular biology methods.
Degrees available: Master by Research, Master of Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and Honours.
Scholarships: Applicants are automatically considered for a range of scholarships, although some scholarships require a standalone application.
Location: Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
Start date: Anticipated project start date is Fri Jan 01 2027.
Supervision team: Dr Patrick Michael Lelliott (Principal Supervisor), Dr Emily Lelliott (Internal Co-supervisor), and Dr Alex Pinto (Internal Co-supervisor).
How to apply: Submit an Expression of Interest via the project page. Review the scholarship information and follow any additional scholarship application instructions if needed.
Funding details
Applicants are automatically considered for a range of scholarships, but some scholarships require a standalone application. No specific stipend, tuition, or funding amount is stated in the post.
What's required
Applicants should be interested in RNA therapeutics, in-silico design, molecular biology, sterile cell culture, lipid nanoparticle handling, and experimental validation using flow cytometry, imaging, luciferase/qPCR. The project mentions design/build/test work across cardiac fibroblasts, endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and cancer cell lines; prior experience in bioinformatics, biochemistry, genetics, or pharmacology would be relevant.
How to apply
Submit an Expression of Interest through the project page. Review the scholarship information and check whether any additional scholarship applications are required. Use the project link to access the full details and application pathway.
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