2016 IMB Research Training Guide

1

ReseaRch TRaining guide

2016 Edition

disclaimeRThe inclusion in this publication of details of a program or a course creates no obligation on the part of the University to teach it as or when described. The University may discontinue or vary programs and courses at any time without notice. Information in this Guide is accurate as at September 2015.

While care has been taken to provide accurate information in this prospectus, it is the responsibility of students to check and confirm the specific details of programs, courses and enrolment.

All costs and fees quoted in this publication are in Australian dollars (A$).

Any agreement with this University does not remove the right to take action under Australia’s consumer protection laws.

More information on Australian Consumer Protection can be found at australia.gov.au

inTeRnaTional sTudenTsMore information about UQ for international students, including the study environment, links to estimated living costs, refund policies, support services, information for students with families, and your legal rights as an international student can be found at uq.edu.au/international-students

Before commencing your project at IMB, all students must visit IMB’s Postgraduate Office and complete a set of inductions before starting work in the building. As an active member of an IMB research group, we also request that you assign your intellectual property to UQ prior to commencing your research.

PuBlicaTionPublisher: The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular BioscienceEditors: Postgraduate Office and Communications team Date: September 2015 Place of publication: Brisbane, Australia Cover illustration: Appropriation of ‘Quantify and Observe’ by Joannah Underhill

esos comPlianceThe provision of education services to international students by Australian education institutions is governed by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2007.

The University of Queensland, in providing education services to overseas students, complies with the National Code of Practice of the Department of Education and Training and the Universities Australia code of ethical practice.

More information on the ESOS Framework can be found at future-students.uq.edu.au/education-services-overseas-students

CRICOS Provider Number 00025B

PRivacyThe University complies with Australian and Queensland privacy laws and guidelines. More information on UQ’s Privacy Policy can be found at uq.edu.au/privacy

2

http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students

http://www.uq.edu.au/privacy

3

Welcome to IMB 5

Creating change through discovery 6

Living in Brisbane 7

About IMB 8

Overview 9

Research divisions 9

Research centres 9

Research support facilities 10

Student community 11

Research programs, admission and scholarships 12

Research for coursework (during a semester) 12

Medical degree students 12

Summer Research Program 13

Winter Research Program 14

Traineeships 14

Honours program 15

Research Higher Degree programs 16

English language requirements 17

Key dates: research quarters and scholarship rounds 17

How to apply for an MPhil or PhD 18

IMB Postgraduate Award (IMBPA) 19

IMB Research Advancement Award (IMBRAA) 19

Supervisor Directory 21

Projects 22

Chemistry and Structural Biology Division 22

Genomics of Development and Disease Division 28

Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine Division 32

Contact 36

4

5

The Institute for Molecular Bioscience at The University of Queensland (UQ)

As an IMB trainee, honours or Research Higher Degree student, you will become a vital part of our scientific community, joining almost 500 scientists and students from around the world who are working together to improve quality of life through leading fundamental research.

IMB’s research training is designed to give you every opportunity that a university in the world’s top 100 can give, including access to our world-class facilities, inspiring researchers, extensive academic and industry networks and free student support services.

As an active member of one of our research groups, you will be encouraged to work closely with your colleagues and collaborators, expand your skillsets, seek answers to the tough questions, explore your scientific potential, and make the most of student life here at IMB and UQ.

During your time at the Institute, you will find our Students of IMB Association (SIMBA) to be a great way to connect with your peers for advice, support and a range of enjoyable social activities. We know studying is hard work, which is why our postgraduate team is committed to helping you maintain a healthy study-life balance to ensure you get the most out of yourself and your studies.

We encourage you to review the exciting research opportunities available to you at IMB and to talk to as many students and potential supervisors as you can.

We look forward to welcoming you to our world of discovery.

Welcome To imB

Professor Jenny Stow Deputy Director (Research), IMB

Professor Brandon Wainwright Director, IMB

Financial strength

• Annual scholarship budget of almost $40 million from the Australian Government and UQ, which is provided to around 1800 Research Higher Degree (RHD) students

• More than $380 million in research funding from a variety of sources including the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

First-class facilities

UQ campuses are among the most attractive in Australia, boasting outstanding sporting and recreational facilities, as well as a vibrant campus culture and:

• multi-million dollar laboratories and research centres

• one of the country’s largest academic libraries, with more than two million physical format resources and 116,800+ distinct journal titles.

Unrivalled support

• Support for RHD students through the Career Development Framework, which provides directed, experiential learning to help you work towards your research and professional goals

• Social functions, professional development, and cross-disciplinary collaboration events

• Student Services, which provides advice on careers and graduate employment; helps students find accommodation; offers disability support, international student support and student counselling; and runs a series of free academic, research and personal development workshops.

World-renowned research

• UQ has more specialised fields of research “well above world standard” than any other Australian university, according to the 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment.

International reputation

• UQ has established itself as an institution of global standing and impact. Positioned among the world’s top 100 universities, UQ is one of Australia’s premier learning and research institutions. UQ’s reputation for excellence is reinforced by major international university ranking indices:

• Top 50 – QS World University Rankings 2015-16

• Top 50 – US News & World Report Best Global Universities Ranking 2014-15

• Top 100 – Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2014-15

• Top 100 – Academic Ranking of World Universities 2015

Research commercialisation

• UQ is the most successful university in Australia for the commercialisation of research via UniQuest

• UniQuest benchmarks in the top 10% globally for university-based technology transfer.

Outstanding alumni network

• UQ students are connected to world leaders through global, national and local partnerships

• The University’s outstanding 200,000+ alumni include a Nobel laureate, the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, an Academy Award winner, and leaders in government, law, science, public service and the arts.

When you choose The University of Queensland (UQ) to undertake a research program, you are choosing a truly world-class university. As a research student at UQ you join a culture of research excellence.

cReaTing change ThRough discoveRy

13,118

220,000+ (total since 1911)

Alumni

11,155

50,749Total Students

Postgraduate Students

International Students

16 April 1910

140 countries

founded

from

Public University

* Statistics are accurate as at April 2015.

6

UQ’s campuses are located in and around Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, known as the ‘Sunshine State’.

Young, vibrant and entrepreneurial, Brisbane is more than just a city – it’s a whole region full of things to see and do.

With an enviable climate, sun-drenched days and starlit nights, Brisbane beats to a background rhythm of exciting contrasts and endless adventures.

With an edgy arts scene, pumping nightlife, a strong sporting community and a rapidly growing music and café culture – all the while remaining within easy reach of exotic green rainforests, clear blue waters and golden beaches – there’s always plenty to discover.

living in BRisBane

300+

2.1mPopulation of Brisbane

Days of Sunshine

‘Australia’s hippest city’named

every year

by useful ResouRcesBrisbane Marketing

visitbrisbane.com.au

studybrisbane.com.au

University of Queensland (UQ)

uq.edu.au/international-students/about-brisbane

7

http://www.studybrisbane.com.au/

http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students/about-brisbane

8

aBouT imB

Established in 2000 as UQ’s first research institute, IMB is a multidisciplinary research institute committed to improving quality of life through leading discovery science.

Our vision is to be a global leader in the discovery and application of molecular life sciences research.

Our researchers discover the fundamental mechanisms of biology and human disease and translate these findings into new drugs and diagnostics for global health, and improved products and processes for industry and the environment.

IMB researchers work in partnership with their academic, industry and clinical colleagues around the world to advance knowledge in areas including pain, rare diseases, inflammation, superbug infections, cancer, diabetes and obesity, agriculture and clean energy.

ReseaRch divisions• Chemistry and Structural Biology

• Genomics of Development and Disease

• Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine

For more information on the research divisions, see page 20.

The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB), which is based at the Queensland Bioscience Precinct, is one of Asia-Pacific’s leading life sciences research institutes.

ReseaRch cenTResIMB Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research

Our centre brings together basic research with drug discovery and development. We aim to understand inflammation at the cellular and molecular levels, and devise strategies for controlling inflammation to prevent or treat disease.

IMB Centre for Pain Research

Our vision is to discover and develop new molecules for treating pain in humans. Our researchers use advanced technologies to accelerate discovery and optimisation of analgesic small molecules, peptides and natural products.

Centre for Rare Diseases Research

Rare diseases are debilitating and life- threatening disorders that can affect any organ system in the body and frequently affect more than one. Our centre aims to identify, confirm and understand the causes of rare diseases with the aim of finding new treatments.

Centre for Superbug Solutions

Our centre will help doctors accurately diagnose and treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. Clinicians, chemists, microbiologists and pharmacists are working together to help our community stop superbugs in their tracks before it’s too late.

Breakthrough science programs

• Biomembrane design

• Algal biomedicines

• Mechanobiology

379 Scientific Publications

In 2014 we had

60 with an impact Factor > 10

26

459

including

across

$1 invested by the Queensland Government

$5 delivered to the community

for every

321 Global Collaborations

5 Continents

$56m

$31.8mAnnual Budget

Competitive Grants

Patents Managed

Researchers, Support Staff and Students

discoveR moRe imb.uq.edu.au

twitter.com/IMBatUQ

facebook.com/ InstituteforMolecularBioscience

9

* Statistics are accurate as at April 2015 and monetary amounts are in Australian dollars.

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/

10

ReseaRch suPPoRT faciliTiesIMB scientists have on-site access to a range of leading technologies and facilities, allowing them to conduct faster, more comprehensive research.

ACRF Cancer Biology Imaging Facility and ACRF Dynamic Imaging Facility

The Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s (ACRF) Cancer Biology Imaging Facility is one of the largest and most comprehensively equipped facilities in Australia for both imaging and the screening of chemical and biological libraries. It is home to 23 high-performance microscopes and supporting image data analysis workstations, with facility staff on-site to provide users with expert technical support and training. It complements and extends the work of the ACRF Dynamic Imaging Facility, which was established in 2005.

imb.uq.edu.au/acrf-imaging-facilities

IMB Sequencing Facility

The IMB Sequencing Facility (ISF) provides sequencing services to IMB, UQ and the research community in the greater Brisbane region. The ISF team can help with library preparation and sequencing on Illumina NextSeq 500 and MiSeq platforms.

imb.uq.edu.au /genomic-sequencing-facility

Mass Spectrometry Facility

IMB’s Mass Spectrometry Facility is home to a suite of state-of-the-art mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography, and robotic instrumentation that has been refined and optimised to investigate biological systems in a high-throughput qualitative and quantitative manner.

The 11 available systems within the facility provide researchers with the resources to investigate a broad range of mass spectrometric applications, including molecular discovery, identification, characterisation and quantification.

imb.uq.edu.au /mass-spectrometry-facility

Biomolecular Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility

IMB’s Biomolecular Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Facility makes the powerful technique of NMR spectrometry accessible to our research and industry clients. The facility comprises a 600 MHz spectrometer with a cryoprobe and autosampler, and a 500 MHz spectrometer, equipped with a robotic sample changer. In addition to the Institute’s extensive NMR infrastructure, IMB researchers also have access to Australia’s most powerful NMR spectrometer, a 900 MHz spectrometer equipped with a cryoprobe and sample changer. This instrument is located within IMB and is a spectrometer of the Queensland NMR Network.

imb.uq.edu.au/NMR-facility

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/acrf-imaging-facilities

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/genomics-facility

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/genomics-facility

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/mass-spectrometry-facility

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/mass-spectrometry-facility

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/NMR-facility

11

sTudenT communiTyThe Students of IMB Association (SIMBA) is IMB’s official student representative body. Run by students, for students, SIMBA aims to encourage a cohesive student body to make the IMB postgraduate experience friendly, enjoyable and valuable for every student. To do this, SIMBA regularly coordinates professional learning, networking, peer support and social events within IMB and beyond to encourage student and staff interaction and collaboration.

SIMBA’s elected committee actively engages with IMB’s leadership team to advocate for students and ensure their voices are heard in discussions regarding the running of the graduate program and other Institute initiatives. IMB students are encouraged to get involved in SIMBA and can find out more about the association at:

simba.imb.uq.edu.au

facebook.com/groups/SIMBA.IMB

Another opportunity for students to connect is through IMB’s Science Ambassador Program. IMB Science Ambassadors are early-career researchers who represent the Institute on a voluntary basis at University open days, host community tours of the Institute and inspire high school students to consider a career in research.

IMB Science Ambassadors are passionate about science and receive media and public speaking training to give them the skills they need to take their science to the world.

QFAB Bioinformatics

QFAB Bioinformatics provides bioinformatics and biostatistics services for life science researchers to integrate, analyse and manage large-scale genomics, proteomics, field and clinical datasets.

qfab.org

Solar Biofuels Research Centre

The Solar Biofuels Research Centre provides an advanced pilot-scale test facility and ancillary laboratories for the development of advanced microalgae systems for the production of food, fuel, biofuels, bioproducts and bioremediation. It provides a research hub to build synergy between industry and university partners skilled in biology, engineering and systems development.

solarbiofuels.org/sbrc

UQ Remote Operation Crystallisation and X-ray Diffraction Facility

This facility provides research training and support for protein structure determination. The diffraction facility has Queensland’s brightest research X-ray source and the state’s only robotic sample storage and retrieval system, which allows for multiple datasets to be collected without user intervention.

uqrocx.imb.uq.edu.au

Information Technology Department

IMB’s dedicated IT Department supports 32 individual research groups over three focused scientific divisions, in addition to support staff. The department supports Macintosh, Windows and Linux environments and provides in-house data centre hosting, website development and hosting, database design and hosting, and auditorium and conference support.

it.imb.uq.edu.au

http://simba.imb.uq.edu.au/Main_Page

http://www.facebook.com/groups/SIMBA.IMB/

12

ReseaRch PRogRams, admission and scholaRshiPs

IMB welcomes both undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students to undertake several types of research placement during their programs.

We offer projects for any of the research modules offered by UQ as part of your program, or simply for research experience. These include but are not limited to:

• any UQ course (eg. Introduction to Research), which requires undertaking a research project

• Advanced Studies in Science modules for students in the ASPinS program at UQ

• volunteer work.

Am I eligible?

UQ students in relevant disciplines.

How do I apply?

Please contact the IMB group leader whose research focus best matches your interests to discuss potential projects listed in this guide. It is best to contact your potential supervisor directly via email, providing details of:

• your academic background • your prior research experience (if any) • why you are interested in that type of research.

Scanned copies of transcripts should also be included. Please copy the email to IMB’s Postgraduate Office ([email protected]), so we can facilitate a placement if the group leader agrees to supervise a project.

If your research project at IMB is undertaken towards a course at UQ, please contact the enrolling school or faculty for information on enrolment.

If you need information on ASPinS, please visit science.uq.edu.au/aspins-program

UQ offers a number of specialisations at a Masters program level in the area of molecular bioscience, including a Master of Science (MSc) program in the areas of molecular biology, biotechnology and bioinformatics. These programs incorporate optional research modules (of 2, 4, 8 or 16 units), which can be undertaken within a research group at IMB. If you wish to use your MSc qualification as a means of meeting entry requirements for the PhD program at UQ, you will need to complete a research component of at least 25% and obtain a minimum overall GPA (grade point average) of 5.65 on the 7-point scale.

For volunteer work approval, please contact the group leader of the IMB laboratory with which you wish to volunteer.

Students who wish to gain research experience while studying medicine are encouraged to undertake a Summer Research Program at IMB after their first year of study.

If you have sufficient prior research training (which would allow you to undertake RHD studies at UQ), we also offer the Intercalated MD-MPhil or MD-PhD program. These programs are a mixture of full- and part-time research intercalated within the medical degree. You will be required to take one year out of the medical program for an MPhil, and two years for a PhD, to devote to full-time research, which can be undertaken within selected IMB research groups.

Am I eligible?

UQ medical students who meet the School of Medicine requirements.

How do I apply?

See page 13 for the Summer Research Program.

For more information on the Intercalated MD-MPhil and MD-PhD programs please visit som.uq.edu.au/future-students/research-higher-degrees

ReseaRch foR couRseWoRk (duRing a semesTeR)

medical degRee sTudenTs

http://www.science.uq.edu.au/aspins-program

http://www.som.uq.edu.au/future-students/research-higher-degrees

http://www.som.uq.edu.au/future-students/research-higher-degrees

UQ’s Summer Research Program provides students with the opportunity to work with a researcher in a formal environment to experience the research process in their field of interest.

The period of eligibility for scholarship payments is between six and ten weeks, generally commencing in mid-November and concluding in mid-February. The research period is normally broken into two parts to allow for the University’s closure during the Christmas break. The research scholar and their supervisor will negotiate the duration of the project and the workload requirements.

The program provides:

• an opportunity to develop new skills and enhance employability

• access to research networks and connections with staff and postgraduate students

• supervision by outstanding researchers

• access to world-class facilities and research opportunities

• the possibility of obtaining credit towards your program (subject to the program rules and structure)

• a scholarship for qualifying students of A$300 per week, paid jointly by UQ’s Advantage Office and IMB

• a one-off payment of A$1000 to subsidise travel and accommodation expenses for non UQ-enrolled students (international and domestic) who are not based in Brisbane or not within 100km of the research site.

summeR ReseaRch PRogRam

imB

Am I eligible?

Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students who are currently enrolled in an Australian or international university, who:

• have completed at least one year of study

• are studying a program relevant to the research discipline to which they have applied at IMB

• have a high level of academic achievement during their undergraduate program

• have an interest in undertaking postgraduate study

• demonstrate a high level of English language proficiency.

How do I apply?

Step 1: Choose the project from the list of projects available on the IMB website postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au

Step 2: Liaise with the IMB Postgraduate Office to obtain more information about project availability and suitability.

Step 3: Gain tentative IMB supervisor approval.

Step 4: Submit the completed application and supporting documents to IMB Postgraduate Office by the deadline below.

Please direct all inquiries to the Postgraduate Administrative Assistant:

Ms Cody Mudgway

+61 7 3346 2133 [email protected]

Application dates

Applications open: 1 July 2016 Applications close: 30 August 2016

uq.edu.au/uqadvantage/summer-research

13

37

137

32

70%

from

we have

At

in

countries

active research students

research groups

international students

* Statistics are accurate as at September 2015.

WinTeR ReseaRch PRogRam UQ’s Winter Research Program provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in research through a four-to-six week project during the winter vacation period (from mid-June to mid-July).

The scholarship provides a total payment of A$1000. Most of the features offered in this program are the same as those in the Summer Research Program (page 13). Please contact IMB’s Postgraduate Office for further information.

Application dates

Applications open: 9 March 2016 Applications close: 3 April 2016

uq.edu.au/uqadvantage/winter-research

TRaineeshiPs Students completing programs outside of UQ can undertake a period of research (typically 3-6 months but up to 1 year) as part of their home degree requirements. There is no scholarship available for these placements but individual research groups may provide a small living allowance to help support the placement of international students.

How to apply

Please visit the traineeships pages on postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au

During my time at IMB I was able to learn a wide variety of techniques and pick up skills that will

be vital to my future career in scientific research. Having great supervisors helped me to develop a better understanding of how research works and how collaboration and cooperation are the keys to success. I was very comfortable conducting

research even as an undergraduate student, and the people in the lab were friendly and helpful.

With state-of-the-art facilities and administration, everything and everyone at IMB aims to enhance the quality of research that is conducted here. Working on a summer project at IMB has helped me to grow as a scientist and I look forward to more work here!

Bryan Tay, Singaporean UQ undergraduate student, Chemistry

and Structural Biology Division

14

http://www.uq.edu.au/uqadvantage/winter-research

http://postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au/

15

An honours year provides students with the opportunity to pursue an independent research project in an area of personal interest, under the guidance of an experienced academic staff member.

Honours is the most effective way to qualify for Research Higher Degree programs at the levels of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). It is also increasingly seen as an important qualification for future employment both within and beyond the research community. The skills gained from an honours year have lifelong value, and include problem solving, critical thinking, communication and time management.

If you have a passion for research and an inquiring mind, you will enjoy the freedom and intellectual challenge of undertaking a project with one of our research groups. This is what research science is all about!

How long does it take?

• Bachelor of Science (Hons) – one year full-time

• Bachelor of Health Sciences (Hons) – one year full-time

• Bachelor of Biotechnology – Honours is a modified program of study in year 4, with entry based on grade point average

• Bachelor of Biomedical Science – Honours is a modified program of study in year 4, with entry based on grade point average

• Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) – Honours is a Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics major in a program of study, which is available in year 4 with entry based on grade point average.

What assessment is required?

The assessment varies depending on the program in which you are enrolled. One of the main components of assessment is the research project, which you will undertake at IMB. Please visit your program webpage on uq.edu.au/study

honouRs PRogRamHow much does it cost?

The indicative tuition fee for domestic students in 2015 varies between A$8565 and A$8768 depending on the program and/or the major in which the student is enrolled.

The indicative tuition fee for international students in 2015 varies between A$30840 and A$32160 depending on the program and/or the major in which the student is enrolled.

For full cost details for your program, visit uq.edu.au/study

Honours scholarships are available. For details, visit scholarships.uq.edu.au

Am I eligible?

IMB offers honours placements within our laboratories but students must enrol for the honours program through the relevant school within the faculty that manages their undergraduate program. Relevant schools include the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the School of Biological Sciences within UQ’s Faculty of Science, and the School of Biomedical Sciences within UQ’s Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. We also welcome students from other UQ schools and faculties if their research fits within IMB’s research priorities.

To be eligible for honours at IMB, students must meet the entry requirements of the enrolling school.

Please contact the relevant school for further details.

How do I apply?

Step 1: Familiarise yourself with the research at IMB and identify the groups where you perceive a strong match with your research interests.

Step 2: Contact a potential supervisor by email or phone, or attend an upcoming IMB information session (see imb.uq.edu.au for details). When contacting your potential supervisor, ask for an opportunity to meet in person to discuss your research intentions and the opportunities available.

It is a good idea to speak with several potential supervisors before making a decision. Honours is a year-long, full-time commitment, so give it plenty of careful consideration.

Also remember that potential supervisors will be interviewing you to look at your suitability for their laboratory. You may not be offered your first choice, so it’s a good idea to have one or two additional options ready.

Step 3: Once you have arranged your project with your supervisor, discuss which UQ school you should enrol through. Once determined, make contact with the school to obtain the relevant documentation.

Step 4: The final step is to provide copies of your enrolment to IMB’s Postgraduate Office.

Is this different for international students?

International students who are joining UQ for the first time for honours should apply for entry through UQ International uq.edu.au/international

You must also lodge an honours application with the enrolling school.

Likewise, current UQ international students who do not have the honours year built into their program must apply through UQ International, in addition to lodging their application with the enrolling school.

International student fees apply. More information can be found at uq.edu.au/study

More information about UQ for international students, including the study environment, links to estimated living cost, refund policies, support services, information for students with families, and your legal rights as an international student can be found at uq.edu.au/international-students

http://www.uq.edu.au/study


16

Research Higher Degree (RHD) programs at UQ include the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and the Master of Philosophy (MPhil).

Most PhD and MPhil candidates undertake a research degree because they are driven by the desire to advance their career opportunities or satisfy their intellectual curiosity. Graduates from RHD programs typically enjoy academic or research careers or a broad range of professional and leadership roles within industry and government. As well as vocational benefits, completing an RHD positions you as an innovator and provides opportunities to travel and network.

The aim of an RHD is to foster the development of independent research skills. These skills include the capacity to formulate a significant research question, master appropriate conceptual and methodological skills, and relate the research topic to a broader framework of knowledge in a relevant disciplinary area.

Beyond becoming an expert in your chosen field, an RHD also fosters your skills in leadership, communication, critical thinking and teamwork.

Why choose IMB for an RHD?

As an IMB postgraduate student, you will benefit from:

• Supervision by internationally acclaimed researchers

• Hands-on access to world-class scientific infrastructure

• Excellent office and laboratory facilities

• A dedicated personal computer equipped and maintained with the latest software

• Online access to leading scientific journals and databases

• A dedicated IMB Postgraduate Award fund, to provide stipends for selected domestic and international applicants

• A dedicated IMB Travel Award fund, to support participation in scientific conferences and research training placements • A dedicated IMB Writing Up Award fund, to support students to submit their thesis in a timely fashion

• A multidisciplinary research environment that encourages collaboration and networking, to drive imaginative and innovative science

• A program of scientific seminars featuring internationally acclaimed scientists and cutting-edge science

ReseaRch higheR degRee PRogRams• A program of specialist training (IMB Advantage) in the commercialisation and communication (writing, speaking, reporting) of science

• An active IMB student body, Students of IMB Association (SIMBA)

• The IMB Science Ambassador Program

• A tertiary qualification from UQ, one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities.

How long does it take?

A PhD at IMB takes between 3.5 and 4 years full-time to complete. An MPhil takes between 1.5 to 2 years full-time to complete. There is no mandatory coursework for RHDs and you will start your project as soon as you commence study.

As part of the IMB Advantage Program, IMB offers a number of professional development workshops during the year. These workshops aim to help you expand your knowledge and skillsets, adding value to your learning.

What assessment is required?

All RHD students must meet UQ’s academic assessment requirements as per the program guidelines, via the milestone process.

For further information, visit uq.edu.au/grad-school/completing-each-milestone

PhD students are required to produce a thesis of no more than 80,000 words, with the research representing a significant new contribution to the discipline.

MPhil students are required to produce a thesis of no more than 40,000 words that demonstrates their capacity for critical analysis and application of specialist knowledge.

How much does it cost?

Domestic students (including Australian citizens or permanent residents and New Zealand citizens) are currently exempt from paying tuition fees for an RHD.

International students are required to pay the full-time tuition fee of A$33,000 per year in 2015, or obtain a scholarship to cover tuition fees.

For full cost details for this program, visit uq.edu.au/study

For other fees and expenses to be considered, please see the UQ Graduate School website uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees

Am I eligible?

All PhD and MPhil applicants (domestic and international) must satisfy all academic requirements (including a sufficient duration of relevant research experience) for acceptance into UQ’s RHD programs. All applicants must also satisfy UQ requirements for English language proficiency.

For more details, visit uq.edu.au/grad-school/our-research-degrees

English language requirements

Students must complete either an international English language testing service (IELTS), internet-based or paper-based test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL), or another acceptable equivalent test, and achieve the required score (see table opposite) to automatically meet UQ’s English language requirements*.

In some cases, where it can be verified that the student has functioned to a high level in an environment where English is the primary language, English language requirements may be satisfied, but this occurs on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of a committee.

Note that test results are valid for two years from the date of the test, and must be valid upon commencement at UQ. For a full list of requirements, visit uq.edu.au/grad- school/english-language-proficiency-requirements

* For commencement in 2016

Scholarships

As the majority of students who apply for a PhD or MPhil are looking for scholarships to cover tuition fees and living expenses, it is very important to note the difference between being eligible for the program and competitive for a scholarship.

To be competitive for a scholarship students would normally have:

• Excellent academic grades in relevant subjects

• Highly relevant research training experience

• Superb references from highly qualified and experienced referees.

To be highly competitive for a scholarship students would also normally have:

• Authorship on publications in peer- reviewed scientific journals or patents

• Authorship on scientific posters at scientific conferences

• Achievement awards and/or prizes

• Extended research experience, through industry/government/academic placements.

See uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees

http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/completing-each-milestone

http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/completing-each-milestone


http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees

http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees

http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/our-research-degrees

http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/our-research-degrees

http://uq.edu.au/grad-

17

english language RequiRemenTs

Scholarship Rounds 2016

The following are recommended dates for your application to be submitted to your enrolling school/institute. Your school/institute may have their own internal deadlines for accepting applications in each scholarship round, so it is essential that you follow the school/institute deadline if they are different from the recommended dates below:

Round 1 Round 2International Domestic International Domestic

Recommended last day to submit your application to school/institute 9 September 2 October 5 February 22 April

Last day for school/institute to submit your application to Graduate School 7 October 23 October 4 March 20 May

Missing requirements to be submitted for assessment by 23 October 13 November 1 April 17 June

Last day to be assessed as eligible for admission and scholarship 30 October 20 November 8 April 24 June

Official notification about your admission and scholarship application by 27 November 23 December 6 May 22 July

Response to offers required by 11 December 15 January 20 May 5 August

Test Minimum overall score Minimum additional scores

IELTS (International English Language Testing Service) 6.5 6.0 in every sub-band (academic module)

TOEFL (Paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language) 570 5.0 in TWE (written), and 54 in reading and listening

TOEFL (Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language) 87 21 in written, 19 in reading, listening and speaking

key daTes: ReseaRch quaRTeRs in 2016

Research Quarter Start date of Quarter Due date for payment of charges

Census date / final date to cancel without financial penalty

End date of quarter

RQ1 1 January 15 January 1 February 31 March

RQ2 1 April 15 April 1 May 30 June

RQ3 1 July 15 July 1 August 30 September

RQ4 1 October 15 October 1 November 31 December

18

hoW To aPPly foR an mPhil oR Phd A Research Higher Degree is a big commitment, so make sure you take the time to choose the right opportunity for you. Below is a brief outline of the application process, but a more detailed outline can be found at postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au

Step 1: Read this guide and visit imb.uq.edu.au/group-leaders to identify IMB group leaders (your future supervisors) whose research best matches your interests.

Step 2: Contact your preferred supervisors by email, including an academic CV detailing a brief summary of your academic qualifications, your research experience, publications, prizes and other relevant qualifications. Be sure to provide a strong indication of your research interest and whether you hope to undertake PhD or MPhil study.

Step 3: If your potential supervisor perceives a strong research match, they may request more information via an IMB Expression of Interest (EOI) and will contact your referees. If the process continues further, the potential supervisor will interview you face-to-face, by Skype or by telephone, to discuss potential projects, assess your understanding of the research area and determine your ability to articulate your ideas.

Step 4: Once your supervisor has confirmed their willingness to supervise you, they will work with you to complete the IMB Postgraduate Research Project form and will submit this to IMB’s Postgraduate Office.

Step 5: IMB’s Postgraduate Office will contact you to finalise your application, outlining the process for provision of referee reports. You will be instructed to lodge a UQ Graduate School online application.

If your application meets all academic requirements of the program, and you can demonstrate that you meet English language requirements, IMB will complete the School Recommendation form and lodge your application with the UQ Graduate School by the deadline for the next UQ scholarship round.

Step 6: The UQ Graduate School will notify you directly of the outcome of your application.

Step 7: We look forward to seeing you in the lab!

eXTeRnal scholaRshiP oPPoRTuniTiesThe University of Queensland, Australian Government and various international funding bodies offer their own scholarships for which you may be eligible. Find out more at:

scholarships.uq.edu.au

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/lab-heads)

19

imB PosTgRaduaTe aWaRd (imBPa) The IMBPA is a scholarship which provides a living allowance for domestic and international students, but does not cover the tuition fees for international students. International students wishing to apply must have some means of covering fees or request nomination for an additional fee scholarship, such as the UQ International Scholarship.

Value

The IMB Postgraduate Award is equivalent to an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) which was A$25,849 per annum in 2015 (indexed annually).

Duration

Three years with the possibility of an extension of up to six months.

Closing date for applications

The IMBPA rounds are aligned with the UQ Scholarship deadlines; see the UQ Graduate School deadlines at uq.edu.au/gradschool/scholarships-and-fees

How do I apply?

Your Application for Admission and Scholarship for a UQ RHD program will be used as your application for this award. No further documentation will be required.

Please note, you must be enrolled, or intend to enrol, in a PhD or MPhil at IMB as a full-time student. You must receive an unconditional offer from UQ before accepting the scholarship.

The primary criteria for being awarded one of these scholarships is merit, determined by academic track record and research performance relative to opportunity.

imB ReseaRch advancemenT aWaRd (imBRaa)Let our research leaders help you reach your scientific potential.

IMBRAA is a A$30,000 top-up scholarship to help kick-start your research career.

Applications are sought from talented domestic students who demonstrate:

• excellence in academic achievement

• a capacity and passion for research

• independence and leadership potential

• ability to communicate your love of science.

Value

Award recipients will receive a A$30,000 career enrichment award, payable in annual installments of A$10,000.

Ongoing receipt of the award is subject to sustained high levels of performance.

Am I eligible?

You are eligible to apply if you are a domestic student intending to undertake full-time PhD studies at IMB.

You must also secure an Australian Postgraduate Award or equivalent award to support your studies.

How do I apply?

For information on deadlines and the application process, please visit postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au/awards or email [email protected]

http://www.uq.edu.au/gradschool/scholarships-and-fees

http://www.uq.edu.au/gradschool/scholarships-and-fees

http://postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au/awards

mailto:[email protected]

imB ReseaRch divisions Chemistry and Structural Biology (CSB)

IMB’s Chemistry and Structural Biology Division conducts pure, strategic and applied research in organic and medicinal chemistry, structural biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, virology, bacteriology, and biotechnology. IMB scientists discover, design and synthesise new compounds, investigate the molecular and structural basis of physiology and disease, and develop new treatments to improve health.

Genomics of Development and Disease (GDD)

IMB’s Genomics of Development and Disease Division generates important insights into gene structure, function, regulation and interaction; clues to the causes of inherited and developmental diseases; and new molecular and genomic approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. IMB scientists have the capacity to not only link a novel genetic mutation with a disease state, but also to begin to investigate how this disease state might be treated on an individual level and at a broader population level.

Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine (CBMM)

IMB’s Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine Division seeks to understand the molecular workings of the cell, the building blocks of our bodies. This is vital for a full understanding of how our bodies function, and serves as a foundation to investigate the cellular basis of disease. IMB scientists are tackling key issues in cell biology, investigating the mechanisms responsible for how cells develop, function, move and interact with one another.

2020

21

suPeRvisoR diRecToRy

Name Email Phone(+61 7)

Quick index by research area Researchdivision

Page

Prof Paul Alewood [email protected] 3346 2982 Chronic pain and chronic diseases; cancer; drug discovery

CSB 22

Prof Rob Capon [email protected] 3346 2979 Biodiscovery and drug discovery; infectious diseases; cancer and pain; chemical ecology

CSB 22

Prof Matt Cooper [email protected] 3346 2045 Infectious diseases; inflammation and immunity; drug discovery and diagnostics

CSB 22

Prof David Craik [email protected] 3346 2019 Chronic pain; cancer; obesity; cardiovascular diseases; plant-based medicines

CSB 23

Prof David Fairlie [email protected] 3346 2989 Cancer; immunity; inflammatory diseases; diabetes; obesity; pain; Alzheimer’s disease; drug discovery

CSB 23

Prof Ben Hankamer [email protected] 3346 2012 Clean fuels; infectious diseases CSB 23

Prof Glenn King [email protected] 3346 2025 Chronic pain and chronic diseases; insecticides; drug discovery

CSB 24

Dr Michael Landsberg [email protected] 3346 2010 Infectious diseases CSB 25

Prof Richard Lewis [email protected] 3346 2984 Chronic pain and chronic diseases; drug discovery; pharmacology

CSB 25

Prof Jenny Martin [email protected] 3346 2016 Infectious diseases; drug discovery; diabetes; membrane trafficking; membrane proteins; structural biology

CSB 25

Dr Markus Muttenthaler [email protected] 3346 2985 Oxytocin; vasopressin; breast cancer; venom peptides; drug discovery and development; peptide dendrimers

CSB 26

Assoc Prof Mark Smythe [email protected] 3346 2977 Chronic pain and chronic diseases; cancer; inflammation; drug discovery

CSB 26

Dr Irina Vetter [email protected] 3346 2660 Chronic pain; pharmacology CSB 26

Dr Lachlan Coin [email protected] 3346 2649 Algorithms for mapping genomic structural variation GDD 28

Dr Mat Francois [email protected] 3346 2494 Embryonic development – lymphatic vasculature; cancer GDD 28

Dr Ben Hogan [email protected] 3346 2105 Embryonic development – vasculature; cancer GDD 28

Prof Peter Koopman [email protected] 3346 2059 Embryonic development – gonads and sex determination; genetic disorders

GDD 29

Dr Joseph Powell [email protected] 3346 2611 Functional genomics; transcriptomics; RNA; sequencing; population genetics; medical genomics

GDD 29

Prof Mark Ragan [email protected] 3346 2616 Genomics; cancer; infectious disease GDD 29

Dr Cas Simons [email protected] 3346 2080 Rare childhood diseases; leukodystrophies; personalised medicine; high-throughput genomics

GDD 30

Dr Kelly Smith [email protected] 3346 2050 Embryonic development – heart; genetic and chronic diseases

GDD 31

Prof Brandon Wainwright [email protected] 3346 2110 Cancer and cancer biology of skin and brain GDD 31

Assoc Prof Carol Wicking [email protected] 3346 2052 Embryonic development – face, limbs, skeleton; genetic disorders

GDD 31

Prof Kirill Alexandrov [email protected] 3346 2017 Synthetic biology; protein engineering; molecular diagnostics

CBMM 32

Dr Brett Collins [email protected] 3346 2043 Intercellular protein transport; chronic diseases CBMM 32

Prof George Muscat [email protected] 3346 2039 Obesity and diabetes; cancer; nuclear hormone receptors CBMM 32

Prof Rob Parton [email protected] 3346 2032 Membrane microdomains; cancer and chronic diseases CBMM 34

Dr Kate Schroder [email protected] 3346 2058 Chronic and infectious diseases; inflammation and immunity

CBMM 34

Prof Jenny Stow [email protected] 3346 2110 Protein trafficking; inflammation and infection; cell biology; cancer biology

CBMM 34

Assoc Prof Matt Sweet [email protected] 3346 2082 Inflammation and immunity; infectious diseases CBMM 35

Assoc Prof Rohan Teasdale

[email protected] 3346 2056 Cell biology – protein trafficking; infectious diseases; neurodegeneration

CBMM 35

Prof Alpha Yap [email protected] 3346 2013 Cell-cell adhesion; morphogenesis; cancer and cancer biology

CBMM 35






































22

PRofessoR Paul aleWood


uq.edu.au/alewood

Research title: Venom peptides that target chronic pain

Summary of research interests:

Our research focuses on identifying bioactive molecules from Australia’s venomous animals that have the potential to create drugs that will play important roles in finding treatments for chronic pain, heart disease, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, and breast cancer.

Although venom peptides (also called toxins) when delivered by an animal sting or bite can have a devastating effect, many are useful in treating human disease and the potential to expand this class of new drugs is huge. Specifically, we are interested in the discovery and total synthesis of potent and selective venom peptides from Australia’s venomous animals; the chemical synthesis of proteins and bioactive peptides; the development of new synthetic and analytical chemistry; and protein structure and function.

Traineeships, honours and PhD projects include:

• Discovery and characterisation of new conotoxins that are likely to target human receptors involved in chronic pain

• Determination of the structure-function relationships of natural and designed bioactive molecules including the discovery, isolation and characterisation of venom peptides from snakes, spiders, cone snails, platypus, ticks and scorpions, their role in human health and uncovering new pain pathways in chronic pain.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Paul Alewood on the details above.

PRofessoR RoBeRT caPon


capon.imb.uq.edu.au

Research title: Biodiscovery: from biodiversity and biology, to bioactives and beyond


My research group focuses on the discovery and use of novel bioactive natural products from Australian marine and terrestrial biodiversity. These metabolites span all known biosynthetic classes and include many molecules that are new to science. Our research makes use of a range of sophisticated chemical technologies, and extends into the fields of microbiology, cell biology, pharmacology and biochemistry, supported by an extensive network of collaborators. Natural products uncovered during our investigations represent valuable new leads in the search for drugs in the fields of human and animal health and crop protection. They also have potential application as molecular probes to better interrogate, understand and manage living systems.

Traineeships, honours and PhD

projects include:

• Marine biodiscovery

• Microbial biodiscovery

• Drug discovery: infectious diseases, cancer and pain

• Synthetic and medicinal chemistry

• Cane toad chemical ecology.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Rob Capon on the details above.

PRofessoR maTT cooPeR


cooper.imb.uq.edu.au

Research title: Drug discovery and diagnostics


We believe that we can more effectively treat people by improving the way we understand and diagnose disease.

Our research is aimed at discovering new ways of diagnosing and treating viral and bacterial infections, as well as diseases associated with chronic inflammation such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. We have a major focus on the design and development of novel antibiotics active against drug-resistant bacteria, also known as ‘superbugs’.


• Antibacterial and antifungal medicinal chemistry

• Small molecule inhibitors of inflammation

• Antibiotic mode of action studies

• Chemoinformatics, microbiology and nanotechnology for diagnostics.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Matt Cooper on the details above.

PRojecTs: chemisTRy and sTRucTuRal Biology division


http://www.uq.edu.au/alewood



http://capon.imb.uq.edu.au/



http://cooper.imb.uq.edu.au/

23

PRofessoR david cRaik


imb.uq.edu.au/david-craik

Research title: NMR spectroscopy


Our laboratory focuses on cyclic peptides which are small stable peptides that can be tailored for treating a range of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. We investigate all aspects of cyclic peptides, including their discovery from plants, determining their structure using NMR spectroscopy, testing their activity, synthesising and re-engineering them to make them more active and also producing them in plants as ‘biofactories’. Consequently, we have a diverse range of skills and expertise in our group, from field work in the jungle to plant and structural biology, to chemistry, making it a fun and challenging environment.


• Discovery and structural characterisation of medicinal plant proteins

• Structure-activity studies of conotoxins

• Design of novel anticancer agents

• Protein engineering and drug design

• Molecular biology and evolution of cyclotides.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor David Craik on the details above.

PRofessoR david faiRlie


fairlie.imb.uq.edu.au

Research title: Chemistry and human therapeutics


Our group investigates molecular mechanisms of chemical reactions, biological processes, disease development and drug action. Understanding how molecules interact, how chemical and biological reactions work, and how structure influences activity enables us to design, synthesise and evaluate enzyme inhibitors, receptor antagonists and protein-binding ligands as new drugs for cancer, infectious diseases, inflammatory disorders, type 2 diabetes, obesity and Alzheimer’s disease. Chemists in our group discover new drugs. Pharmacologists, biochemists and cell biologists in our group study actions on human cells and in animal models of diseases.


• Drug design and discovery (computer- assisted, structure, dynamics, virtual techniques)

• Medicinal chemistry (organic synthesis, NMR structures, drug development)

• Drug mechanisms of action (cell biology, signalling pathways, enzymology, GPCRs)

• Pharmacology (rodent models of inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, type 2 diabetes, cancers, Alzheimer’s disease).

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor David Fairlie on the details above.

PRofessoR Ben hankameR


imb.uq.edu.au/ben-hankamer

Research title: Algae-based solar-driven fuel and product production


By 2050, globally we are forecast to require 70% more food (UN), 50% more fuel (IEA) and 50% more water (OECD). This will have to be achieved while reducing CO2 emissions by 50-80% (IPCC). Algae are positioned at the nexus of these challenges as they capture solar energy and CO2 and can utilise these to produce food, fuels and clean water. Furthermore, as algae production systems can be located on non-arable land they can reduce food vs fuel pressures and expand photosynthetic capacity for a food and fuel future.

Photosynthesis is the first step of algae production and cost-effective optimisation of light capture is essential. Our work includes parallel programs in biotechnological optimisation, techno-economic and life cycle analyses of these processes, and the structural biology of the photosynthetic machinery to enable efficiency improvements through model-guided design.


• Optimising light capture efficiency: transcript and protein analysis of the light harvesting complex proteins

• Optimising protein expression: dengue virus antigen expression in microalgae for vaccine development

• Solar driven H2 production from water: optimising H2 production conditions

• Membrane protein structure determination: purification and structural characterisation of the cyclic-electron flow – Photosystem I super complex using electron microscopy and high resolution single particle analysis

• Microalgae process modelling: model- guided design of high-efficiency microalgae systems.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Ben Hankamer on the details above.


http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/david-craik


http://fairlie.imb.uq.edu.au/


http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/ben-hankamer

PRofessoR glenn king


imb.uq.edu.au/glenn-king

Research title: Bugs and drugs


Animal venoms are increasingly being used in drug discovery efforts as they constitute a vast and largely untapped source of pharmacologically active molecules. Spiders are by far the most successful group of venomous animals and their venoms are predicted to contain more than 10 million different bioactive peptides. Our group is exploring spider venoms as a source of novel peptides to provide leads for the development of new drugs and insecticides. As a major part of this initiative, we have developed a discovery pipeline that allows venom peptide structures and structure-activity relationship data to be obtained at an unprecedented rate.


• Discovery and characterisation of venom peptides targeted at ion channels involved in sensing or transmission of pain

• Discovery and characterisation of novel insecticidal and nematicidal compounds

• Structural characterisation of the interaction between venom peptides and their ion channel targets

• Examination of the genetic basis underlying the remarkable diversity and evolution of venom peptides.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Glenn King on the details above.

I am thoroughly enjoying my time at IMB as an honours student. The facilities are fantastic,

and the quality of research undertaken here is inspiring, particularly for myself at the beginning

of my research career. To be able to work in such an environment with so many helpful

and intelligent individuals has been immensely beneficial. My time here has provided me with

essential skills such as independence, time management, critical thinking and problem

solving as well as providing a wealth of practical knowledge as I progress through my project.

I am thankful for the experience.

meg Bongers, Australian IMB Honours Student,

Chemistry and Structural Biology Division

24

25

PRofessoR RichaRd leWis


imb.uq.edu.au/richard-lewis

Research title: Venoms to drugs


My group focuses on the discovery and biochemical characterisation of venoms and marine toxins, especially the conotoxins produced by cone snails to rapidly immobilise their prey. These toxins modulate a variety of membrane proteins, including important drug targets like sodium and calcium channels, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), monoamine transporters, and G-protein coupled receptors. Their high selectivity makes them important research tools and potential therapeutics. Through a multidisciplinary research program, including peptide and target molecular pharmacology, and integrated proteomics and transcriptomics, we continue to discover and develop the potential of these interesting molecules, particularly in the area of pain research.


• Discovery of novel analgesic venom peptides from cone snails

• Integrated proteomics and transcriptomics to investigate the evolution and structure- function of cone snail venoms

• Ultrastructural studies of the venom apparatus of cone snails

• Mechanisms of venom peptide regulation in cone snails

• Genomics studies of cone snails.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Richard Lewis on the details above.

dR michael landsBeRg (hankameR gRouP)


researchers.uq.edu.au/ researcher/807

Research title: Macromolecular structures and disease


Macromolecular machines are highly organised, large and complex structures assembled from multiple protein components. Most proteins within the crowded environment of a cell function as part of larger, multi-protein complexes, but our knowledge of protein structure to date is largely informed by studies of proteins in isolation of other biomolecules. Our research is focused on elucidating the structure of macromolecular machines to gain insight into the fundamental principles of protein recognition that lead to their assembly and understand the functional and/or dysfunctional role they play in disease. We use molecular Electron Microscopy (EM) as the centrepiece of hybrid biophysical and structural characterisation approaches to investigate what are otherwise considered as challenging biomolecular targets.


• Structure/function studies of the eukaryotic endosomal sorting (ESCRT) pathway. The ESCRT pathway facilitates infection by a subset of enveloped viruses that includes HIV, Ebola and Hepatitis & Herpes viruses and novel inhibitors of this pathway may have value as anti-viral therapeutics

• Determining the structure of 'ABC' toxin complexes isolated from insecticidal bacteria and investigating how they can be manipulated to produce novel, environmentally friendly biopesticides

• Investigating the potential of 'ABC' toxins to contribute to virulence in human bacterial pathogens

• Structure/function studies of mechanically-activated, non-selective ion channels in bacteria.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Michael Landsberg on the details above.

PRofessoR jenny maRTin


imb.uq.edu.au/jenny-martin

Research title: Protein structure and drug design


Our research uses structural, biophysical and molecular methods applied to two major research themes: antibiotic resistance and diabetes. Antibiotic resistance has been described by the Infectious Diseases Society of America as a looming public health crisis. But how do we go about developing new antibiotics that overcome the problem of resistance? One approach is to target virulence rather than viability. We focus on the bacterial disulfide bond (DSB) proteins that are essential for bacterial virulence.

Characterisation of these proteins, using bioinformatics, structural biology and biochemical approaches, generates new knowledge about bacterial pathogenicity and supports the structure-based design of DSB inhibitors as potential new antibacterials. Our research program in diabetes focuses on the membrane trafficking proteins responsible for carrying out some of the functions of insulin. When insulin binds to fat and muscle cells, vesicles are trafficked to the cell surface to deliver the GLUT4 transporter. This delivery of GLUT4 enables the cell to take glucose in from the blood, and maintain normal blood glucose levels. We investigate the membrane trafficking machinery that fuses vesicles with the plasma membrane. Membrane trafficking was the topic of the 2013 Nobel prize in Physiology/Medicine. Our goal is to understand what drives this fundamentally important process at the molecular level.


• Antibiotic resistance – targeting virulence rather than viability

• Diabetes – investigation of membrane trafficking.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Jenny Martin on the details above.

26

associaTe PRofessoR maRk smyThe


imb.uq.edu.au/mark-smythe

Research title: Combinatorial chemistry and molecular design


Many biological processes are carried out, or regulated, through protein-protein interactions. Despite their physiological significance, they remain one of the most difficult molecular recognition events to inhibit or mimic. Consequently, there is a huge pharmaceutical demand for the discovery of small molecules that modulate protein function. We are developing methodologies for the discovery of small molecule protein mimetics by studying the chemical and conformational diversity of protein surfaces to provide better candidates for the development of leads for protein-protein interaction targets. Projects are offered in the disciplines of drug design, mathematics, chemistry and biology, as related to the development of drugs for specific therapeutic targets. Specifically this includes the development of new drugs for cancer, asthma, bacterial infection and inflammatory disorders.


• Drug design, mathematics, chemistry and biology – developing methodologies for the discovery of small molecule protein mimetics.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Associate Professor Mark Smythe on the details above.

dR maRkus muTTenThaleR (aleWood gRouP)


researchers.uq.edu.au/ researcher/12444

Research Title: Exploring nature’s diversity for treatment/detection of disease


We work at the interface of chemistry and biology with a strong passion for translational research. Our interests lie in the exploration of nature’s diversity to develop molecular tools, diagnostics and therapeutics. We use chemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology to study the interactions of these highly potent and selective molecules with human physiology, with applications in neuropathic pain, cancer and CNS disorders.


• Study of the ‘love-drug’ oxytocin in autism and breast cancer

• Discovery and characterisation of venom peptides

• The use of innovative chemistry to develop better probes and drug candidates

• Development of imaging probes

• Peptide dendrimers.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Markus Muttenthaler on the details above.

dR iRina veTTeR


imb.uq.edu.au/irina-vetter

Research title: Neuropharmacology and pain contact


Sensory neurons are fundamental for our interaction with the external world by detecting stimuli including cold, heat, touch, pressure, vibration and tissue injury. These external stimuli are then transformed to electrical signals through specialised molecules, which detect temperature, mechanical stimulation and various chemicals. Although significant progress has been made towards determining the molecular identity of selected receptors and ion channels involved in sensory perception, our understanding of how these contribute to sensory perception, and in particular pain, is limited. Toxins from plants and animal venoms have provided highly specific tools, which allow dissection of the mechanisms of sensory perception and pain and may provide novel molecules with analgesic potential.


• Fundamental basis of peripheral sensory perception

• Identifying and characterising the effect of venoms and toxins on peripheral sensory neurons

• Identifying, characterising and optimising molecules with therapeutic potential from natural sources including venoms

• Understanding the pathophysiology of pain and optimising analgesic treatment approaches.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Irina Vetter on the details above.

27

28

PRojecTs: genomics of develoPmenT and disease division

dR lachlan coin


imb.uq.edu.au/lachlan-coin

Research title: Population genomics


The initial sequencing of plant and animal genomes, including the human genome, accomplished approximately 10 years ago, has led to remarkable discoveries about the genomic relationships between species, and into evolutionary history and processes. We are now entering a population sequencing era in which thousands of genomes from these species are being sequenced. This data will enable us to map genomic variation within species, and assess the phenotypic impact of this variation. My group is particularly interested in mapping genomic structural variation, including copy number variation, repeat variation and balanced structural variation such as translocations and inversions. We are developing algorithms for mapping this variation from next-generation sequence data.


• Algorithmic development, particularly for identification and genotyping of tandem repeats and inversions from low- coverage population sequence data

• Mapping structural variation in multiple plant and animal genomes, including sheep, rice, and human data

• Investigating population differentiation and positive selection of structural variation in humans.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Lachlan Coin on the details above.

dR maT fRancois


imb.uq.edu.au/mat-francois

Research title: The lymphatic vascular tree in development and disease


My research program is designed to identify and characterise key transcriptional pathways that modulate lymphatic vascular development in the mouse embryo. We are interested in translating our discoveries in pre-clinical mouse models of cancer or lymphedema in order to validate the central role of developmental programs that are re-activated under these pathological conditions. Ultimately we aim to develop a novel class of compounds that will enable the pharmacological management of the lymphatics with the view to probing vascular development or setting up the basis for drug development. The experimental strategies we have developed to perform this translational research program rely on a pipeline of assays ranging from in vitro analysis (fluorescence polarisation, cell-based assays) to in vivo mouse models (melanoma xenograft) and involve tight collaborations with other IMB scientists and international research groups who are experts in zebrafish biology, medicinal chemistry and in vivo live imaging.


• Analysis of the transcriptional network that governs lymphatic endothelial cell fate (mouse genetics)

• Molecular characterisation of the embryonic pathways re-activated in lymphatics during cancer metastasis (pre-clinical models)

• Validation of novel molecular targets and assessment of their druggability to develop novel anti-cancer agents.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Mat Francois on the details above.

dR Ben hogan


imb.uq.edu.au/ben-hogan

Research title: Vascular biology and development


My group studies the development of the embryonic vasculature with a focus on the discovery of novel genes involved in blood and lymphatic vessel development in the embryo. We are particularly interested in the development of lymphatic vessels, as the lymphatic vasculature plays critical roles in several human diseases and is a validated target for the inhibition of cancer metastasis. We study the processes of cell fate specification, precursor cell migration and the differentiation of vascular endothelial cells using the zebrafish embryo as a model system. The approaches we use include molecular genetics (mutant identification and characterisation, as well as the analysis of key genes of interest) and high-resolution in vivo imaging of the cellular processes driving the development of the vasculature in the embryo. Ultimately, we aim to elucidate molecular and cellular mechanisms that control vessel development and to understand how the pathways and processes we identify contribute to human disease.


• Analysis of key signalling pathways in lymphatic vascular development in zebrafish

• Molecular and cellular characterisation of zebrafish mutants with defective vascular development

• Genome editing with CRISPR and TALENs to characterise mechanisms of vascular development and disease.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Ben Hogan on the details above.

29

PRofessoR maRk Ragan


imb.uq.edu.au/mark-ragan

Research title: Computational genomics


We use advanced computing and bioinformatics to make quantitative inferences about how genomes, gene families, protein families and biomolecular networks evolve, diversify and function in mammalian cells and in bacteria, with emphasis on cancer and infectious disease respectively.

Traineeships, honours and PhD

projects include:

Projects addressing data analysis and/or computational inference for:

• Gene exchange and genetic recombination in pathogenic bacteria

• Gene exchange and genetic recombination across entire microbial ecosystems

• Networks of molecular interactions in cancer

• Protein interaction domains and the evolution of new cellular functions.

Some project areas require expertise in scripting/coding e.g. in Python, Perl, Java, Matlab or R.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Mark Ragan on the details above.

PRofessoR PeTeR kooPman


imb.uq.edu.au/groups/koopman

Research title: Sex development,

fertility and gonadal cancer


We discover genes involved in the development of cells, tissues and organs in the embryo, and study their activity, regulation, function and interaction, using mice as an experimental model.

Much of our work centres on the genetic pathways that regulate sex determination and gonadal development. This work is applied to understanding, diagnosing and managing the molecular defects that can result in atypical sex development in humans. We also study how germ cells (the cells that generate sperm or oocytes) are regulated in the embryo, with the aims of identifying genes involved in gonadal cancers and infertility, and using this information to diagnose and perhaps treat these disorders.


• Identification and functional study of sex- determining genes

• Disorders of sex development

• Regulation of germ cell development, infertility and testis cancer.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Peter Koopman on the details above.

dR josePh PoWell


imb.uq.edu.au/joseph-powell

Research title: Genomics of human disease


The majority of the genetic factors that affect an individual’s risk of disease act through the misregulation of genes. My group is focused on researching how DNA sequence variants contribute to differences in gene regulation and ultimately lead to disease susceptibility. Our research engages sophisticated statistical methodology and the use of high-performance computing to analyse high-throughput genetic and transcriptomic data from large cohorts of individuals. In particular, we focus on investigating differences in the genetic regulation of genes in different tissues and cell types, and whether this explains the tissue specific pathology of most diseases.

Additionally, we are interested in using computational analysis to provide a flexible and efficient approach to better inform on the biological mechanisms underlying human disease, before collaborating with colleagues to design molecular genomics studies to determine the exact mechanisms.


• Genetic control of gene regulation across tissues

• The mechanisms by which GWAS loci influence disease

• Using genomic information to provide better diagnostic tools for clinicians.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Joseph Powell on the details above.

30

dR cas simons

+61 7 3346 2080 [email protected] researchers.uq.edu.au/

researcher/1298

Research Title: Genetic basis of disease in rare genetic disorders


The primary theme of my research is to understand the genetic basis of disease in rare genetic disorders. Rare diseases are typically incurable, life-threatening and degenerative and together are believed to affect over 1.2 million Australians. Working with clinical collaborators from Australia and around the world, we use next-generation sequencing technologies to sequence the genomes or exomes of rare disease patients and their families. This requires the development of novel bioinformatic approaches to identify the disease-causing variants in each family. Once candidate variants have been identified, we attempt to functionally characterise the molecular basis of the disease using cell or animal models.

Traineeships, Honours and PhD projects include:

Projects available in my group include bioinformatic and lab-based projects focused on:

• Identification of novel disease genes associated with inherited neurological diseases and the characterisation of those genes in animal models.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Cas Simons on the details above.

Spending half a year studying in the Hankamer group was a really rewarding and unforgettable

experience. I learned advanced scientific knowledge and techniques, and was involved

in fantastic research work and projects. The lab environment was extremely friendly; whenever I had a question or problem, experienced and

intellectual researchers of a wide diversity were always there to help. I was really impressed by our weekly lab meetings and troubleshooting, where group members and I would present our work,

receive feedback and evaluation, discuss together and find solutions for future work. Overall, being

part of IMB was extremely exciting and worthwhile. I got to work with a great professional team while

gaining scientific knowledge and experience.

chengchen Wu, Chinese IMB Trainee, Chemistry and Structural

Biology Division

31

PRofessoR BRandon WainWRighT

+61 7 3346 2110 [email protected] imb.uq.edu.au/brandon-wainwright

Research title: Tissue repair and cancer


Our research group focuses on understanding the mechanism of common human cancer. In particular we study the paediatric brain tumour, medulloblastoma, and the most common form of cancer, basal cell carcinoma of the skin (BCC). Both of these tumour types are caused by aberrant regulation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway. The Hh pathway is also important in normal embryonic development and stem cell regulation. Therefore, our work examines both the cancerous state and normal tissue regulation. We work at the interface between developmental biology and human/mouse genetics and genomics to gain new insights into how cancers occur, and how we might block their growth.


• Control of tumour – study of the paediatric brain tumour, medulloblastoma, and the most common form of cancer, basal cell carcinoma of the skin (BCC)

• Stem cell growth – examining interface between developmental biology and human/mouse genetics and genomics to gain new insights into how cancers occur, and how we might block their growth.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Brandon Wainwright on the details above.

associaTe PRofessoR caRol Wicking

+61 7 3346 2052 [email protected] imb.uq.edu.au/carol-wicking

Research title: Developmental genes and human disease


Our research focuses on the role of the primary cilium in embryonic development and human disease. Over the past decade the primary cilium has emerged as a pivotal cellular organelle essential for the regulation of key embryonic signalling pathways. Dysfunction of this organelle is responsible for an expanding class of human congenital diseases collectively known as ciliopathies. Patients with these disorders have widespread defects, and we are interested in a specific subclass with skeletal anomalies. We combine mutation analysis in families with ciliopathies, with functional studies in animal- and cell-based models to investigate the mechanism of disease.


• Characterisation of novel mouse models of ciliopathies

• Functional analysis of novel skeletal cilopathy genes arising from whole- exome sequencing.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Associate Professor Carol Wicking on the details above.

dR kelly smiTh

+61 7 3346 2050 [email protected] imb.uq.edu.au/kelly-smith

Research title: Genetics and cell biology of cardiac development


The function of the heart is to distribute blood around the body. It does so with high efficiency and without mixing oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This is achieved by forming an elaborate and exact structure comprising of distinct chambers, delicate valves and septa all assembled with precision to ensure correct alignment with the major vessels. Any defects that occur during the formation of these elements result in structural defects, collectively known as congenital heart defects. In order to repair such defects, we must first understand how the heart is formed.

During development, the heart begins as a simple symmetrical field of cells that undergoes differentiation, cellular migration, cellular transitions (such as endoMT) and cell shape changes. Using the translucent zebrafish model, we employ fluorescent transgenic reporter strains and genetic mutant lines to interrogate the cellular and genetic regulation of heart development.

My research aims to understand how to build a heart.


• Deciphering genetic pathways in cardiac valve development

• Analysing cardiac progenitor cell migration during early heart development

• Investigating cellular organisation in distinct cardiac compartments.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Kelly Smith on the details above.

32

dR BReTT collins


imb.uq.edu.au/brett-collins

Research title: Membrane trafficking at atomic resolution


Our group studies the fundamental process of protein transport in the human cell. In particular, we aim to determine the molecular basis of how protein coats bind to receptors such as the amyloid precursor protein involved in Alzheimer’s and control their packaging into membrane-bound vesicles. We use a wide variety of techniques including molecular biology, protein X-ray crystallography, biochemical and biophysical studies of protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions, and cellular studies of protein localisation to build coherent molecular models of how molecules are trafficked within the cell.


• Structural biology of the RGS domain containing sorting nexins in GPCR signalling and neuronal function

• Molecular basis for the function of the retromer protein complex, and implications for neurodegenerative diseases.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Brett Collins on the details above.

PRofessoR kiRill aleXandRov


imb.uq.edu.au/kirill-alexandrov

Research title: Molecular engineering: better tools, better science, better life


The ability to replicate the building blocks of life represents the core technologies of life sciences. The exponential increase in the number of sequenced genomes

has focused attention on how best to produce, study and modify the encoded gene products. Accessing the information encoded in proteins is technically and economically challenging. This constitutes a critical technological bottleneck that determines the pace of progress in many areas of biology and biotechnology.

We are working on the approaches that allow rapid and flexible production, analysis and engineering of proteins and protein complexes. By integrating cell-free protein production, microfluidic handling and single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy, we develop new processes for understanding complex molecular machines such as tethering complexes and transcription regulating complexes. Further, we use the developed technologies for construction of novel biological modules and cascades.


• Development of approaches for

recombinant production and biophysical

analysis of multi-subunit protein complexes

• Quantitative analysis of protein-protein

and protein-small molecule interactions

using a novel in vitro translation system

• Development of high-yield eukaryotic protein expression systems based on protozoan [Leishmania tarentolae]

• Development of synthetic protein

receptors and signal amplification

cascades, and point-of-care diagnostic devices.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Kirill Alexandrov on the details above.

PRofessoR geoRge muscaT


imb.uq.edu.au/george-muscat

Research title: Nuclear receptors and metabolism


Our research focuses on elucidating the functional role of nuclear hormone receptors (NRs) in the regulation of metabolism in the context of metabolic disease (e.g. diabetes and obesity) and breast cancer. NRs belong to a superfamily of hormone-dependent DNA binding factors that translate pathophysiological, metabolic, and nutritional signals into gene regulation. Dysfunctional NR signalling results in obesity, type 2 diabetes and cancer, moreover, metabolic disease increases the risk and incidence of cancer. Furthermore, the significance of NRs in human health is emphasised by the array of prescription pharmaceuticals that target NRs in the context of reproduction, inflammation, cancer and metabolic and endocrine diseases.

The objective of our current research is to examine the role of NRs and epigenetic NR coregulators in metabolic disease and breast cancer. We are testing the hypothesis that the orphan NRs, for example RORs and NR4As, control the pathophysiological process in metabolic disease and cancer.


• Elucidating the role of RORα and RORγ in the resistance to diet-induced obesity and fatty liver disease.

• Understanding the role of the NR4A and ROR subgroup in breast cancer survival outcomes

• Analysing the role of epigenetic regulators (histone methyltransferases) in (i) glycaemic control and (ii) breast cancer clinical outcomes.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor George Muscat on the details above.

PRojecTs: cell Biology and moleculaR medicine division

33

I was overwhelmed when I first arrived at IMB. Its infrastructure surpassed anything I had seen before and I immediately sensed the unique spirit that exists in the

Institute. All employees work together as a team, share ideas, collaborate and most of all, contribute to a scientific environment which is inspiring and respectful.

My 3.5 years at IMB were highly productive and enabled me to see the world, speak with scientific leaders around the globe and push beyond any of my own expectations. In addition, the UQ ecosystem provided me with a plethora of opportunities to network,

participate in extracurricular activities and conduct tutoring in various subjects. PhD students might not realise it on a day-to-day basis when we set up an experiment or try to interpret some ambiguous data, but analytical skills, problem solving, creativity and strategic thinking are truly incorporated in our daily lives and make us highly attractive

experts for consulting and other business-related areas.

The foundation to success requires an environment that believes in you and your talent, and challenges you to go beyond what’s expected. I was lucky enough

to find this environment at IMB.

dr fabian kurth, German IMB alumnus and Business Strategy Consultant

at Accenture, Life Science Strategy

34

dR kaTe schRodeR


imb.uq.edu.au/kate-schroder

Research title: Inflammasomes in infection and inflammatory disease


The innate immune system is critical to defence against infection, but also drives unhealthy processes in inflammatory disease. An important emerging player in innate immunity in both of these settings is the ‘inflammasome’ pathway. Inflammasomes are molecular machines that trigger cytokine maturation and immune system activation in response to signals indicating cellular ‘danger’. While the inflammasome pathway is critical for host defence against infection, it is also a key driver of unhealthy inflammation in many human diseases. We use a wide variety of molecular and cell biology techniques, in conjunction with animal models and human clinical samples, to investigate the biology of inflammasomes in host defence and inflammatory disease at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels.


• Mechanisms of inflammasome- dependent cell death

• Inflammasome signalling in human cells during infection

• Inflammasome pathway dysfunction in type 2 diabetes.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Kate Schroder on the details above.

PRofessoR jenny sToW


stow.imb.uq.edu.au

Research title: Protein trafficking in inflammation and cancer


My group studies how immune cells fight infection and cancer. In the immune system, macrophages are responsible for eating (phagocytosing) and killing bacteria and other pathogens. Macrophages also secrete cytokines that control inflammation – the process that fights infection but also underlies many diseases, including cancer. Inside macrophages, identifying the proteins, membrane domains and signalling pathways that control the trafficking for all these cell functions is our main focus. We use many approaches, including cell-based assays, fluorescence imaging, biochemistry and models of disease in our research. We are identifying new genes and proteins as potential targets for developing new drugs, and developing more strategic uses for existing drugs, to treat infection, cancer and inflammatory disease.


• What makes an early phagosome? Phagocytosis of bacteria in macrophages (the cell biology of infection control)

• How is inflammation turned off through Toll-like receptor signalling? (preventing inflammatory damage and disease)

• How does cholesterol affect Toll-like receptor signalling? (connection between obesity, inflammation and infection)

• Kinase inhibitors in macrophages (new treatments for inflammation and cancer).

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Jenny Stow on the details above.

PRofessoR RoB PaRTon


imb.uq.edu.au/rob-parton

Research title: The cell surface in health and disease


The plasma membrane which envelops each mammalian cell plays a crucial role in detecting signals for growth or in taking nutrients into the cell. At the same time the plasma membrane protects the cell against unwanted invaders. Many human disease conditions, including cancer and muscular dystrophy, are caused by dysfunction of the plasma membrane. Our research focuses on the organisation, dynamics, and functions of this crucial structure. We use a wide range of techniques, including advanced 3D electron microscopy and real-time light microscopy together with animal models of human disease to gain insights into plasma membrane dynamics and domain organisation. We have particularly focused on surface domains termed caveolae that are linked to signal transduction, endocytosis, and lipid regulation to understand their role in healthy cells and their aberrant function in disease.


• Zebrafish as a model to understand human muscle diseases

• Structure and function of a new family of caveolar coat proteins

• Novel pathways of endocytosis in cultured cells and in tissues

• Bioengineering of novel nanovesicles for drug delivery.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Rob Parton on the details above.

35

associaTe PRofessoR Rohan Teasdale


imb.uq.edu.au/rohan-teasdale

Research title: Endosomal dynamics and pathogen invasion

Summary of research interests

The endosomal/lysosomal system of mammalian cells is a highly dynamic organelle and the trafficking pathways within the endosomal system are fundamental for a wide variety of key cellular processes. My group is developing cellular and computational approaches to identify novel mammalian proteins associated with the endosomal system. This includes the retromer complex that has recently been identified as a causal agent for type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative disease. Numerous infectious pathogens exploit specific endocytic pathways to invade the host. Characterisation of pathogen entry pathways is essential for understanding infectious diseases but has also proven to be a powerful tool for gaining insight into normal cellular processes. We are currently investigating the molecular details of these pathways and how they are modulated in response to infection with Salmonella and Chlamydia. Once inside the cell, these pathogens actively alter the host cells’ membrane trafficking pathways to create a replicative niche that enables the pathogen to survive and avoid the innate immune system in these cells.


• Defining the essential host proteins required for intra-cellular bacterial pathogen infection. These host proteins represent attractive therapeutic targets

• Defining the cellular machinery responsible for the sorting of membrane cargo within the mammalian endosome

• Defining the molecular and cellular properties of retromer’s function in neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Associate Professor Rohan Teasdale on the details above.

PRofessoR alPha yaP


imb.uq.edu.au/alpha-yap

Research title: Cadherin signalling and morphogenesis


My group studies the morphogenetic mechanisms of cadherin adhesion molecules. These cell surface receptors are key determinants of tissue patterning during development and wound healing. Importantly, cadherin dysfunction is a major factor in common human diseases, such as tumour invasion and epithelial inflammation.

We believe that understanding the cell and molecular mechanisms by which cadherins control normal tissue patterning will provide valuable insights into how cadherin dysfunction contributes to disease. A major focus of our work lies in understanding how cadherin signalling regulates the cytoskeleton, and the morphogenetic impact of these processes, especially through control of contractile forces at cell-cell junctions. We craft potential projects to the interests of students, guided by the momentum of projects that are established in the laboratory.


• Control of tissue tension by cadherin- cytoskeletal interactions

• Cell-cell junctions and cell migration

• Dynamic cytoskeletal organisation at cadherin junctions: its regulation in health and disease

• Regulation and dysregulation of junctional mechanics: impact for epithelial organisation and tumour invasion.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Alpha Yap on the details above.

associaTe PRofessoR maTT sWeeT


imb.uq.edu.au/matt-sweet

Research title: Pathogen surveillance, innate immunity and inflammation


My group studies the innate immune system. Innate immune cells, such as macrophages, express a broad repertoire of pattern recognition receptors that act as danger sensors. For example, members of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family detect a number of pathogen-associated molecular patterns such as LPS from Gram-negative bacteria. Macrophage activation through TLRs regulates expression of genes involved in antimicrobial responses and inflammation.Thus, TLR signalling is required for effective control of invading microorganisms, but if dysregulated, contributes to acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. We study TLR signalling pathways and the function of novel TLR-regulated genes in inflammation and in responses to bacterial pathogens (e.g. Salmonella, uropathogenic E. coli).


• TLR-regulated antimicrobial pathways in human macrophage responses to bacterial pathogens and subversion of these pathways by Salmonella

• Interactions between uropathogenic E. coli and innate immunity

• TLR signalling in epithelial cell-mediated inflammation and host defence

• Roles of protein deacetylases in TLR- mediated inflammation

• Functional analysis of novel TLR target genes

• Roles of novel GPCRs in macrophage- mediated inflammation.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Associate Professor Matt Sweet on the details above.

36

Institute for Molecular Bioscience The University of Queensland Building 80, 306 Carmody Road St Lucia Qld 4072

+61 7 3346 2222

+61 7 3346 2101

[email protected]

imb.uq.edu.au

twitter.com/IMBatUQ

facebook.com/ InstituteforMolecularBioscience

youtube.com/imbatuq

IMB Postgraduate Office

+61 7 3346 2133

+61 7 3346 2101

[email protected]

imPoRTanT infoRmaTionMore information about UQ for international students, including the study environment, links to estimated living costs, refund policies, support services, information for students with families, and your legal rights as an international student can be found at uq.edu.au/international-students

UQ Policies and Procedures in relation to RHD students can be found at ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/4.60-research- higher-degree-candidates

UQ Policies and Procedures in relation to UQ students’ rights and responsibilities, including student grievance resolution and the appeal process can be found at ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/3.60-student-rights-and-responsibilities

While care has been taken to provide accurate information in this brochure, it is the responsibility of students to check and confirm specific details.

CRICOS Provider Number 00025B

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/

Documents

2016 IMB Research Training Guide