Investigating structural plasticity in virus capsids
We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to research structural plasticity in viruses. The primary focus of this role is to the investigate the ability of both native and engineered viral proteins to assemble into capsids with varying geometry. From the use of synthetic approaches to producing virus capsids it is becoming clear that this phenomenon is more widespread than previously thought and has implications for the evolution of viruses and the development of virus-based biotechnologies.
This project will involve structural biology using state of the art techniques including cryo-electron microscopy and charge detection mass spectrometry, recombinant protein expression in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression systems, and the development of purification processes and analytics for biological macromolecules.
Scholarship details
The research will be undertaken within Frank Sainsbury’s research team at the newly formed Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics.
The Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics brings together Griffith’s strengths in biomedical research, combining the outstanding discovery and translational research, infrastructure, and training expertise of the Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery. The Institute for Glycomics and biomedical teams from Griffith University will deliver real and immediate impacts locally and globally, transforming the lives of people around the world, especially those in disadvantaged communities.
Dr Frank Sainsbury is an ARC Future Fellow in physical and synthetic virology at Griffith University. His research group is primarily interested in virus capsids, pushing the boundaries of how they assemble and what can be learned from using them as biochemical reaction vessels and delivery vehicles.
The project will be based on the Nathan (Brisbane) campus.
The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will be able to learn and adapt in a forward-looking research environment. You will have strong organisational and interpersonal skills with an ability to contribute to a team effort. You will have evidence of a passion for molecular bioscience research, with a strong desire to undertake research in structural virology.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
- Experience in virology, structural biology, protein engineering, or recombinant protein expression and purification is desirable.
International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:
- A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
- A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
- A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19
The 2024 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $33,480 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
For project related enquiries please contact:
Dr Frank Sainsbury
Phone: (07) 3735 6066
Email: f.sainsbury@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to f.sainsbury@griffith.edu.au containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section, including a copy of your academic transcript
- A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
- Names of two referees
The closing date for expressions of interest is: 5pm Friday 18 October 2024
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
Get in touch
If you have a question, need some help with your scholarship application, or would like to make a donation, feel free to contact us.