Donna Whelan

La Trobe University is advertising two funded PhD positions in a research program led by Donna Whelan (Senior Lecturer) in Bendigo, Australia. The projects sit at the intersection of DNA repair , advanced microscopy , single-molecule biophysics , and quantitative biology , with a strong emphasis on understanding how proteins locate the correct place on DNA and how damaged DNA is found and repaired. Project 1: DNA Damage with Advanced Imaging (PRO-26144) This PhD will investigate how cells find and repair damaged DNA. The work involves advanced imaging to track DNA repair proteins at high spatial and temporal resolution, combining cell biology, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis. Project 2: Single-Molecule Imaging of DNA Homology Search (PRO-26145) This PhD will study how a protein finds a matching DNA sequence during homologous recombination. The project uses single-molecule FRET, complementary imaging technologies, and quantitative analysis to observe molecular interactions and develop new experimental approaches. These opportunities are especially suitable for students with backgrounds or interests in cell biology , molecular biology , biochemistry , biophysics , physics , microscopy , or quantitative biology . The post explicitly welcomes both domestic and international applicants. Location note: applicants must be onshore in Australia and able to commence by 30 June 2027 . If you are interested, contact the recruiter directly and indicate whether you are applying for PRO-26144 or PRO-26145.