IMB Research Training Brochure 2014 by Cody

Student Research Training at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience 2014

Welcome to the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) at The University of Queensland As a prospective honours or research higher degree student, I hope you will find much to excite and interest you when you read through this brochure. In 2010, an independent report identified IMB as one of the top two biomedical research institutes in Australia. The institute is part of the University of Queensland, a world renowned research intensive university which consistently ranks in the top 100 universities worldwide. Doing research science at IMB means being part of a culture, which provides an intellectually stimulating and friendly working environment and which encourages collaborations and collegiality. Our students are supported throughout their time with us, whether through excellent infrastructure and opportunities, an invitation to one of the many IMB social

Hello from SIMBA! SIMBA is the graduate student society run by students of the IMB. One of the prime roles of SIMBA is to organise both professional and social events that allow students from all areas of research within the IMB to meet and interact as a cohesive group or â&#x20AC;&#x153;student bodyâ&#x20AC;?. SIMBA aims to make the postgraduate student experience at the IMB socially and professionally satisfying. Previous events have included thesis writing workshops, rooftop breakfast discussions, lunch time barbeques and movie nights. Another role of SIMBA is performed through

Cover image provided by: Kylie Georgas, Professor Little laboratory

events, or general assistance and a friendly chat. We encourage you to review the exciting research opportunities available to you at IMB and to talk to as many current students and staff as you can. We do hope to see you as one of our students in the future! Professor Jenny Stow, Deputy Director (Research), IMB

Professor Brandon Wainwright, Director, IMB

its elected committee. On behalf of the IMB student body, the SIMBA committee actively interacts with staff and Group Leaders of the IMB so that students have a voice in the running of the graduate program and other initiatives. As the current President of SIMBA, I would like to invite you to contact us if you have any questions about life as a student at IMB. Claudio Cortes Rodriguez, Chile PhD student, SIMBA President 2012/13 SIMBA Executive Committee http://simba.imb.uq.edu.au/Main_Page

Contents Welcome 1 I Contents 2 I The University of Queensland (UQ) 3 I The Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) 3 I IMB Science Ambassadors 4 I IMB Facilities 5 I Living in Brisbane 6 I Undergraduate Research Experience 6 I Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s by Coursework Research Experience 7 I Summer Research Scholarship Program 7 I Winter Research Scholarship Program 8 I Honours 9 I Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) 10 I Scholarships - IMB Postgraduate Award 11 I Scholarships â&#x20AC;&#x201C; IMB Honours Scholarship 12 I How to Apply for a PhD or MPhil 13 I How to Apply for Honours 14 I Directory of Potential Supervisors 16 - 20 I Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology Projects 22 - 24 I Division of Genomics and Computational Biology Projects 26 - 30 I Division of Molecular Cell Biology Projects 32 - 36 I Division of Molecular Genetics and Development Projects 37 I IMB Open Day 2014 37 I Important Information 37 I Contact Details

The University of Queensland (UQ) The University of Queensland is one of the top researchintensive universities in Australia. It is a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8), a coalition of leading comprehensive Australian universities, intensive in research. It is also a member of the Universitas 21, a global network of research universities for the 21st century, and Universities Australia network. UQ has joined the world’s elite consortium edX to enhance global access to its teaching and research expertise. UQ’s campuses are located in or around Brisbane, which is renowned for its mild sub-tropical climate, multicultural and safe environment. UQ has one of the fastest and most advanced information networks in the world, modern teaching spaces that enable the use of the latest technology and a building program, which aims to support a sustainable future for UQ. Over 14,500 students have completed a research higher degree (PhD and MPhil) at UQ. It is currently supporting a further 4,500 students to achieve their research goals. UQ is dedicated to providing a high level of support to its students. The UQ Student Services team helps students to find accommodation, provides advice on careers and graduate employment, offers disability support, International student support and student councelling, and delivers a

series of free of charge academic, research and personal development workshops. See the website www.uq.edu.au/student-services/ UQ’s Career Advantage training, offered to PhD students by the UQ Graduate School provides additional value and develops multiple skills in the areas of Leadership, Commercialisation and Global Collaborations. See the website www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/ UQ receives an impressive $330 million in research funding from a variety of sources including the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). UQ is consistently ranked in the top 100 universities in the world: > 46th - QS World University Rankings 2012-2013 > 90th - Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic Ranking of World Universities 2012 > 65th - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2012-2013 (the only Queensland university and one of only four Australian universities in the top 100) > 72nd - National Taiwan University Ranking 2012 www.uq.edu.au

UQ Quick Facts Type of University Public

Founded

April 16, 1910 (Gazettal of the first Senate, and officially celebrated foundation date)

Main campuses

St Lucia, Ipswich, Gatton, Herston

Total students

46,863 (as at December 2012)

International students

11,389 from more than 142 countries (as at December 2012)

Libraries

15 libraries with 2 million volumes and 900 networked databases

Computers

18,000+ including supercomputers

The Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) The Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) was established in 2000 as UQ’s first research institute and is the cornerstone of one of the largest bioscience research precincts in Australia. IMB is committed to improving quality of life for all by pursuing discoveries through fundamental research, inventing biotechnologies, and advancing cures for disease. IMB’s multidisciplinary research programs focus on advancing personalised medicine, drug discovery and biotechnology. IMB has a track record of high-impact discoveries. In 2012-13 IMB’s researchers identified the gene behind a paediatric brain disorder; lead the search for better Legionella treatment;

reprogrammed the adult kidney cells to act as stem cells to repair damaged kidneys; unmasked the genetic mutations that lead to pancreatic cancer; pursued promising new treatments to improve the relief of chronic pain; made further developments in the fight against superbugs; and discovered how microalgae can develop sustainable solar-driven fuel production systems, which has resulted in the opening of a new pilot plant in Brisbane. In pursuing their discoveries IMB researchers collaborate with such industry giants as Johnson&Johnson, Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Siemens, Boeing, Virgin Australia and many more. www.imb.uq.edu.au

IMB Science Ambassadors The IMB Science Ambassadors are a group of early-career researchers from IMB who join the program on a voluntary basis and represent the institute at events, conduct tours and disseminate their research to the wider community. We are passionate about our science and receive training in media and communication skills to enable us to effectively represent the IMB. We look forward to welcoming you to the institute. If you have any questions, Ambassadors would be happy to help answer them!

Wilko Duprez, PhD student, France Student Coordinator, IMB Science Ambassadors 2012/13

IMB Quick Facts Type of Institute

UQ research institute

Founded

In 2000 as an amalgamation of UQ's Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology and the Drug Design and Development Centre, and is housed in the $105 million Queensland Bioscience Precinct, construction of which was finished in 2003.

Campus

St Lucia

Total students, researchers Approx. 500 (as of June 2013) and support staff Student body

Approx. 30% domestic, 70% international; Approx. 50% female and 50% male (as of June 2013)

Key Research Facilities*

ACRF Cancer Biology Imaging, ACRF Dynamic Imaging, Life Science Automation (LISA), High-Throughput Genomics, Mass Spectrometry, NMR, QFAB Bioinformatics, UQROCX Chrystallisation, Solar Biofuels Research Centre, Transgenic Animal Service of Queensland (TASQ)

* Please see more information on Page 4 3

IMB Facilities Our research students are active users of all of the advanced technologies and facilities, which IMB has to offer. Some of the facilities include:

ACRF Cancer Biology Imaging Facility and ACRF Dynamic Imaging Facility The facility is one of the largest and most comprehensively equipped facilities in Australia for both the imaging and screening of chemical and biological libraries. It houses image data analysis workstations and 23 high-performance microscopes, which have been tailored to meet the specific needs of IMB researchers.

LISA Facility IMB’s Life Science Automation (LISA) Facility uses its genome-wide RNA interference libraries and robotic equipment to assist both internal and external research clients in performing cell-based RNA interference screens in human and murine tissue cultures. Using key technologies, LISA provides screening services to assist researchers working across the life sciences to develop and transport assays from the bench to automation.

High-Throughput Genomics Facility This high-throughput DNA sequencing and microarray facility is capable of delivering genomic data at unprecedented speeds and scales. The facility is used to produce high-quality genomic data and analyses to primarily investigate genome variation, which is used to deliver novel applications.

Mass Spectrometry Facility IMB’s Mass Spectrometry Facility (MSF) is home to a suite of state-of-the-art mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography and robotic instrumentation that have 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. The latest addition to the Facility is the Triple TOF 5600 mass spectrometer. Its high resolution and fast acquisition in both ms and ms/ms characteristics make it an ideal system for proteomic and small molecule applications.

NMR Facility IMB’s Biomolecular NMR Facility makes the powerful technique of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometry accessible to our research and industry clients. The Facility comprises a 600 MHz spectrometer with a recent upgrade of a cryoprobe and a 500 MHz spectrometer equipped with a robotic sample changer. Access is also available to the extensive NMR infrastructure housed throughout IMB, most notably a 900 MHz spectrometer equipped with a cryoprobe and soon-to-be installed sample changer. The latter is an instrument of the Queensland NMR Network and is the most powerful state-of-the-art NMR spectrometer in Australia. The available instrumentation is particularly useful for the determination of high-resolution structures of biological macromolecules such as proteins, as well as characterisation of protein/ligand interactions; determination of molecular size and oligomerisation state; investigation of dynamic properties; and metabonomic studies of various biofluids.

QFAB Bioinformatics QFAB Bioinformatics provides bioinformatics services for life science researchers to analyse and manage large-scale datasets. QFAB combines two critical infrastructure platforms linking leading software packages and data repositories with a web service workflow engine and visualisation technology deployed in a scalable, high performance computational environment. This allows for investigations across the biological continuum from systems and chemi-biology perspectives.

UQROCX Crystallisation Facility The UQ Remote Operation Crystallisation and X-ray Diffraction (UQ ROCX) Facility provides research training and support for protein structure determination. This support includes protein crystallisation condition screening, crystal diffraction screening, data collection, data processing, and structure determination. The diffraction facility has Queensland’s brightest research X-ray source and the only robotic sample storage and retrieval system, which allows for multiple data sets to be collected without user intervention.

Solar Biofuels Research Centre The Solar Biofuels Research Centre is an advanced solar biofuels pilot plant designed to develop microalgae-based systems as a source of clean fuel.

Living in Brisbane Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, the Australian “Sunshine State”. It is the third largest city in Australia with a population of 2.2 million people. Brisbane is multicultural and linguistically diverse with 29.7% of its residents born overseas. “People love Brisbane because it’s a ritzy city with a down-to-earth attitude and home to some of the friendliest locals in Oz”, according to the Lonely Planet Guidebook. The weather in Brisbane is mostly sunny and the sub-tropical climate makes it perfect for a range of outdoor activities. Brisbane offers all the advantages of a modern city, including Australia’s most popular art museum, state-of-the-art sporting grounds, world-class universities, while retaining the country charm for which it is renowned. The following websites will assist you in getting further information about Brisbane. Brisbane Marketing: www.visitbrisbane.com.au/Travel/Default.aspx www.studybrisbane.com.au/ UQ: www.uq.edu.au/international-students/about-brisbane

Undergraduate Research Experience in one of our leading research programs. Participating students will be: (1) supervised by a highly trained laboratory member to undertake research (2) given the opportunity to become part of a research group by attending lab meetings (3) paid a scholarship of AUD$14.50 per hour (tax free).

Who is eligible? “My experience as an undergraduate lab assistant has been absolutely amazing. I am getting personalised hands-on training that I would never receive in a classroom setting. This experience makes me a competitive candidate for graduate programs in the US, and is a wonderful addition to my regular coursework.” Kaitlyn Hajdarovic Dickinson College (PA, USA) undergraduate biology/neuroscience student who spent a semester at UQ’s IMB

What is involved? IMB is offering motivated students currently studying within Brisbane the opportunity to gain valuable research experience during semester by working in our advanced laboratories across the fields of personalised medicine, drug discovery and biotechnology in one of our four divisions: > genomics and computational biology > molecular genetics and development > molecular cell biology > chemistry and structural biology. Students will be assigned to work within one of our laboratory teams, whose research interests best match their own, and will be expected to spend eight hours per week in that laboratory for 10 weeks during semester, actively participating

Second and third year students are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Students will be assessed on their academic achievement and must possess a genuine interest in pursuing a research career in an exciting and stimulating environment. Please note the number of scholarships is limited so we encourage all students to apply early. More 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 www.uq.edu.au/international-students.

How do I apply? You can apply for IMB’s 2014 undergraduate research scholarship scheme by sending an email to us indicating the division or specific laboratory in which you would like to be placed, and your reason for applying, plus a scanned copy of your latest academic transcript. Please direct all inquiries to the Postgraduate Administrative Officer: Ms Cody Mudgway Telephone: +61 7 3346 2133 Email: postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au Applications open 22 July 2013 (starting Semester 2 ‘13) 24 February 2014 (starting Semester 1 ‘14) 21 July 2014 (starting Semester 2 ‘14)

Master’s by Coursework Research Experience The University of Queensland offers a number of specialisations at Master’s level in the area of Molecular Bioscience, which includes a Master of Science (MSc) degree in the areas of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics. All of these programs incorporate optional research modules (of 2, 4, 8 and even 16 units), which can be undertaken within a research group at the IMB. If you find an area of IMB research that matches your interest, it is best to contact the relevant group leader directly via email, providing a brief description of your academic background, prior research experience (if any) and why you 6

are interested in that type of research. Scanned copies of transcripts should also be included. Please also copy the email to the IMB Postgraduate office (postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au), so that we can facilitate a placement if the group leader agrees to supervise a project. If you wish to use your MSc qualification as a means of meeting entry requirements for the PhD program at UQ then the MSc will need to contain a research component of at least 25% and you will need to obtain an overall GPA (grade point average) equivalent to 5.5 on the 7-point UQ scale.

Summer Research Scholarship Program What is involved?

Who is eligible?

UQ’s Summer Research Scholarship Program provides students with the opportunity to work with a researcher in a formal environment in order to experience the research process and discover what research is being undertaken in their field of interest.

> undergraduate or postgraduate coursework students who are currently enrolled in an Australian or international university

The period of eligibility for scholarship payments is between 6 and 10 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 degree (subject to the degree rules and structure of your program) > a scholarship for qualifying students to receive an allowance equivalent to AUD$300 per week, paid jointly by UQ’s Office of Undergraduate Education and IMB > non UQ-enrolled students (international and domestic) who are not based in Brisbane or not within 100km of the research site can apply for a one-off payment of AUD$1000 to subsidise travel and accommodation expenses.

> have completed at least one year of study > study for a degree relevant to the research discipline to which they have applied at IMB > have a high level of academic achievement during their undergraduate degree > have the potential to and an interest in undertaking post graduate study > are able to demonstrate a high level of English language proficiency. More 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 www.uq.edu.au/international-students.

How do I apply? 1) Choose the project from the list of projects available on the IMB website www.imb.uq.edu.au/study. 2) Liaise with IMB Postgraduate office to obtain more information about project availability and suitability. 3) Gain tentative IMB supervisor approval. 4) Submit the completed application form and supporting documents to IMB Postgraduate office. Please direct all inquiries to the Postgraduate Administrative Officer: Ms Cody Mudgway Telephone: +61 7 3346 2133 Email: postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au Application dates Applications open: 1 July 2013 and 2014 Applications close: 30 August 2013 and 2014

Winter Research Scholarship Program IMB’s Winter Scholarship program is offered jointly by IMB and The University of Queensland. Research projects are available for between 4-6 weeks over the winter vacation period (from mid-June to mid-July). The scholarship provides a total payment of $1,000 over a 4-week period of research. Most of the features offered in this program are the same as in the Summer Research Scholarship program. Please contact the IMB Postgraduate office or visit our website for further information.

Honours Why do Honours?

Honours at the IMB

An Honours year provides students with the opportunity to pursue an independent research project in an area of interest, under the supervision of an academic staff member.

Some advantages of undertaking a research project within the IMB include:

Increasingly, an Honours degree is seen as an important qualification for future employment, not just for a research career, but for any area in industry or government which requires skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication and time management. It is also the most effective way of qualifying for research higher degree programs at the level of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). If you have a passion for research and an enquiring mind, you may enjoy the freedom and intellectual challenge of undertaking a project with one of our research groups. This is what research science is all about!

> Being part of one of Australia’s leading institutes for molecular bioscience research, which houses 500 staff and students and has an annual budget in the order of AUD$70m > Exposure to broad interdisciplinary expertise within one institute > Gaining access to IMB’s outstanding facilities > Having access to professional development opportunities in communication, statistics and writing offered as workshops to both PhD and Honours students > Contributing to global industry networks with national and international researchers via collaborative research

How much does it cost?

> Being part of a vibrant IMB student body supported by the IMB student association SIMBA

Tuition fees are indexed each year. The indexation rate is fixed 18 months in advance of a particular academic year thereby allowing you to plan your finances ahead of time. The University’s intent is that fee rate increases will be kept to a minimum and that indexation rates will remain stable wherever possible. Since 2006 the indexation rate has remained at or less than four percent and for 2014 it is 4.5 per cent.

> Undertaking research in a purpose built Institute while still benefiting from everything UQ has to offer as a research and teaching university with excellent national and international rankings.

The indicative tuition fee for international students in 2014 varies between AUD$29,500 and AUD$29,750, depending on the degree and/ or the major in which the student is enrolled.

Note that students must enroll through a School within UQ Faculty of Science. See more information in ‘How to apply for Honours’ section of this brochure (see page 13).

The indicative tuition fee for domestic students in 2013 varies between AUD$8013 and AUD$8163, depending on the degree and/ or the major in which the student is enrolled. The indicative 2014 fees for domestic students are not available at this stage. Please see the following website for more information: www.uq.edu.au/study/

“The choice of the IMB for my Honours year followed naturally, due to state-of-the-art research and the great learning environment it provides. The best thing is being surrounded by world-class researchers who are working in very diverse fields yet people are always willing to have a chat or help you out. This aspect as well as the open work spaces helps people interact and you get to learn about and share in other people’s work. In the short time I have been here, I have learnt a lot and met many people, all of whom have been very friendly and welcoming. I’m looking forward to the rest of my time here at the IMB.” Ben Christofori-Armstrong, BSc Honours, Australia 8

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Why do an MPhil or a PhD? An MPhil is a postgraduate research degree that involves undertaking a significant research project. The MPhil program provides students with an opportunity to develop and enhance analytical and research skills through independent investigation in a specific field. Many MPhil students choose to continue with their research in order to obtain a PhD. A PhD is one of the highest degrees that can be awarded. It is an advanced academic qualification, seen as a requirement for the majority of academic and advanced research positions in a wide range of fields and industries. The aim of the PhD is to foster the development of independent research skills. These skills include the capacity to formulate a significant research question, to develop mastery of appropriate conceptual and methodological skills, and to relate the research topic to a broader framework of knowledge in a relevant disciplinary area. But in addition to becoming a “specialist” in your chosen field, a PhD also provides more generic training to engender graduate attributes such as leadership and communication skills, critical thinking skills and an ability to productively work as part of a team, all of which are applicable to a broad range of career opportunities that reach well beyond the confines of your research proposal! A PhD at the IMB is 3-4 years duration, the MPhil is of 1-2 years duration. There is no mandatory coursework; your project starts immediately. There is, however, a wide range of voluntary workshops available as part of IMB’s contribution to the UQ Career Advantage Program, which offer sessions that “value add” to your knowledge base and work to improve your CV.

How much does it cost? Domestic student fees Australian students (including Australian citizens or permanent residents and New Zealand citizens) are currently exempt from paying tuition fees for PhD and MPhil studies. International student fees The full-time enrolment on campus tuition fee is AUD$32,200 per year in 2014, which is indexed annually.

Please see the following website for more information: www.uq.edu.au/study/ For other fees and expenses to be considered please see the UQ Graduate School website www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees

Why choose the IMB? Students who choose to study at IMB join a student cohort of over 130 students from around the world, studying in areas from bioinformatics to biomedical research to biofuels. IMB prides itself on its student experience. Some of the advantages of being an IMB student include: > Being part of one of Australia’s leading institutes for molecular bioscience research, undertaking interdisciplinary research through its four Divisions > Gaining access to IMB’s outstanding facilities > Receiving excellence in supervision (our advisors have won awards for this!) > Receiving up to $2000 of travel funds for attendance at national and international conferences > Being assigned a dedicated computer and desk with a comprehensive suite of scientific and general software, excellent IT support and extensive printing facilities > Exposure to internal, national and international researchers and potential collaborators through weekly seminars and meetings > Additional skill training in commercialization, communication, media training, and thesis writing as part of IMB’s Career Advantage program > Contributing to global industry networks with national and international researchers via collaborative research > Being part of a vibrant IMB student body, supported by the IMB student association SIMBA, the IMB Science Ambassadors program and the Early Career Researchers Committee > Undertaking research in a purpose built Institute while still benefiting from everything UQ has to offer as a research and teaching university with excellent national and international rankings. You too could become one of our IMB students!

“A few of my lecturers in undergrad were from the IMB and their research looked really interesting. Also, I always wanted to see whether the inside of the institute was as impressive as the exterior, which I viewed from the uni bus stop every day. I started here for a third-year undergraduate project, then stayed for honours and now a PhD. The facilities here are wonderful and as there are many different groups within the building, collaborating with other research groups is easy.” Anne Sawyer, PhD student, Australia

Scholarships IMB Postgraduate Award For: Domestic and International students Value: The scholarship value is equivalent to an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) level of funding, which is AUD $24,653 in 2013. Duration: 3 years, with the possibility of up to 6 months extension, pending satisfactory progress Closing date for applications: Note, that the IMB Postgraduate Award deadlines are the same as the UQ Graduate School deadlines. See the UQ Graduate School deadlines on http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/scholarships-and-fees How to apply:

Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled, or intend to enroll in a PhD or MPhil at IMB, as full-time students. The primary criteria for the award of these scholarships will be merit, determined by academic track record and research performance relative to opportunity. Students must have been made an unconditional offer from UQ before accepting the scholarship. The scholarship is intended to provide a living allowance; it does not provide fees for international students. International students wishing to apply must have some means of covering fees or be requesting nomination for a fee waiver scholarship.

> Apply for admission into the program. Supply all supporting documents as per application process. See http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/step-six for the application process. > In addition to the application for admission supporting documents, the prospective principal advisor must submit a recommendation form, clearly stating why they feel the student should be considered for such an Award and providing evidence of the level of financial support they are prepared to offer. Send this information electronically to the IMB Postgraduate office at postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au.

The University of Queensland, Australian Government and International funding bodies offer their own scholarships. Please visit the following websites for more information: www.uq.edu.au/study/scholarships/ www.uq.edu.au/international-students/ scholarships-for-international-students

Scholarships â&#x20AC;&#x201C; IMB Honours Scholarship For: Domestic and International students intending to commence an Honours project at IMB in 2014. Value: $2,500 Duration: One academic year (full-time) Closing date for applications: 22 November 2013

Eligibility: Honours Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit, research potential and personal attributes, such as leadership and community service. The applicant must be undertaking an Honours project full-time within IMB in 2014 under the primary supervision of an IMB researcher.

How to apply: In order to apply for the scholarship you need to provide: > A letter of support from the IMB Group Leader who will supervise the project > Personal Statement addressing your intended career path, highlighting your previous research experience, academic achievements, leadership and community involvement > Academic Curriculum Vitae (CV) > A copy of the undergraduate academic record > Two reference letters (at least one of which describes your academic abilities) sent directly via e-mail to postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au by the referee.Â Please send this information electronically to the IMB Postgraduate office at postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au.

How to apply for a PhD or MPhil Am I eligible? All PhD and MPhil applicants (domestic and international) must satisfy: > Academic requirements (including a sufficient duration of relevant research experience) for acceptance into UQ’s Research Higher Degree (RHD) Programs > UQ requirements for English language proficiency. For further details, please visit the UQ’s Graduate School website www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/our-research-degrees

Academic requirement for a PhD: The standard basis of admission is a UQ bachelor’s degree with honours class IIA or better. The University accepts the following as equivalent to the standard basis of admission, subject to the Dean, UQ Graduate School’s approval of the qualification > a bachelor’s degree with honours class IIA or better from elsewhere. > a research master’s degree. > a coursework master’s degree with a research component of at least 25% of an academic year and an overall GPA (grade point average) equivalent to 5.5 on the 7-point UQ scale.

English language requirements (as of 2013): Students must complete either an IELTS, TOEFL or another acceptable equivalent test and achieve the required score in order to automatically meet UQ’s English language requirements. In some cases, a UQ committee may deem that the applicants have met the University’s English Language requirements if the applicants can provide evidence that they are proficient in each of the English language skills through education, professional environment or residence in Australia during a sufficient period of time. These cases are assessed on a case-by-case basis. IELTS requires a minimum overall score of 6.5 with a score of 6 in every sub-band. Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) requires a minimum overall score of 90, with 21 for writing and at least 20 in the other categories. Paper-based TOEFL requires an overall score of 570 with a TWE (written) of 5 and 54 in reading and listening. Test results are valid for two years from the date of the test, and must be valid upon commencement at UQ. Institutional test results are unacceptable for entry.

How do I apply for an MPhil or PhD?

> a postgraduate degree, of at least one year of full-time equivalent, with a research component of at least 25% of an academic year and with an overall GPA of 5.0 on a 7-point scale and other demonstrated research experience equivalent to Honours IIA will be considered for PhD entry on a case by case basis.

As a research higher degree is a big commitment, it is important to take time to thoroughly explore the range of research opportunities on offer. If you find something that interests you, make contact with a potential supervisor by email or phone. Details on the application process can be found on the IMB postgraduate website http://postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au.

> a bachelor’s degree plus at least two years of documented relevant research experience, including research publications.

In brief:

Academic requirement for an MPhil: The standard basis of admission is a UQ bachelor’s degree with honours class IIB or better. The University accepts the following as equivalent to the standard basis of admission, subject to the Dean, UQ Graduate School’s approval of the qualification > a bachelor’s degree with honours class IIB or better from elsewhere. > a bachelor’s degree plus at least one year of full-time equivalent postgraduate study that includes a significant research component (usually regarded as a minimum of 25% of an academic year of research or research training).

> a bachelor’s degree plus at least two years of documented relevant experience.

> Read this booklet (page 14 onwards) and visit the IMB website (www.imb.uq.edu.au/study) to identify those IMB Group Leaders whose research best matches your interests. > Contact the relevant Group Leader, directly, by email, providing a brief summary of your academic qualifications, an academic CV/resume detailing your research experience, publications, prizes etc, and provide a strong indication of your research interest and indicate whether you hope to undertake PhD or MPhil study. > If the Group Leader perceives a strong research match, they may request more information via a pre-application process and will contact your referees. > If the process continues further, the Group Leader will interview you by either Skype (ideally) or telephone.

to discuss potential projects, assess more deeply your understanding of the research area and determine your ability to articulate your ideas in the medium of English. > Once the Group Leader has confirmed their willingness to supervise you, you can either download an Application for Admission and Scholarship form from the UQ website or contact the IMB Postgraduate Office staff members who will assist you with the application process. The Group Leader will assist you with completing the research proposal section and will also contact the Postgraduate office to alert them of your application, particularly if you are also applying for the next UQ Scholarship round (there are 4 a year), as timing will be critical.

> Once you have completed the application and attached supporting documents (electronically at first), submit the full application package to the IMB Postgraduate Administrative Officer. > If your application meets all academic requirements of the program, and you can demonstrate that you will meet English language requirements, then the IMB will complete the School Recommendation form and lodge your application by the deadline for the next UQ scholarship round. > The Graduate School will notify you directly of the status of your offer of a place in the program and the outcome of a scholarship application, if applicable. We look forward to your enquiry!

How to apply for Honours Am I eligible? The IMB offers Honours placements within our research groups but students must enroll for the Honours program through the School within the UQ Faculty of Science, which manages their undergraduate degree. This is usually the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences (SCMB), the School of Biomedical Sciences (SBMS) or the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) but we also welcome students from other UQ schools and faculties if the research match is good. To be eligible for Honours at IMB, students must meet the entry requirements of the enrolling school. For further details, go to the Faculty of Science website at: www.science.uq.edu.au.

How do I apply? (1) The first and most important step is to familiarize yourself with the research at IMB and identify the groups where you perceive a strong research match with your interests. (2) Contact a potential supervisor by email or phone or via attending an information session (see our website for details) and organize to meet with them face to face. It is a good idea to speak with several potential supervisors before making a decision because 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 always get

your first choice, so it’s a good idea to have one or two additional options.

(3) If your program allows you a choice of schools, once a project has been arranged, you should discuss with your supervisor the appropriate school at UQ through which you will enroll, then make contact with the school to obtain the relevant documentation. (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 the Honours program should apply for entry through the UQ International office (go to www.uq.edu.au/ international) and must also lodge an Honours application with the enrolling School. Likewise, current UQ International students, who do not have the Honours year already built into their UQ degree, must apply through UQ’s International Office, in addition to lodging their application with the enrolling school. International student fees are applicable. (See page 8.) 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 www.uq.edu.au/international-students.

Before you start Before commencing your project at the IMB, all students must visit the IMB Postgraduate office and complete a set of inductions before commencing work in the building. As active members of our research groups, we also request you assign your Intellectual Property to UQ prior to commencing your research.

Directory of Potential Supervisors Name Email

Phone (+61 7)

Quick Index by Research Area

Research Page Division

Prof Paul Alewood p.alewood@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2982

Chronic pain and chronic diseases; cancer; drug discovery

CSB

Prof Rob Capon r.capon@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2979

Biodiscovery; infectious diseases; chronic diseases; cancer

CSB

Prof Matt Cooper info-coopergroup@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2045 Infectious diseases; inflammation and immunity; drug discovery and diagnostics

CSB

Prof David Craik d.craik@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2019

Chronic pain and chronic diseases; drug discovery

CSB

Prof David Fairlie d.fairlie@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2989

Infectious diseases; inflammation and immunity; obesity and diabetes; cancer; drug discovery

CSB

Prof Ben Hankamer

Clean fuels; infectious diseases

CSB

Prof Glenn King glenn.king@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2025

Chronic pain and chronic diseases; insecticides; drug discovery

CSB

Prof Richard Lewis r.lewis@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2984

Chronic pain and chronic diseases; drug discovery; pharmacology

CSB

Prof Jenny Martin

Infectious diseases; drug discovery

CSB

Prof Mark Smythe m.smythe@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2977

Chronic pain and chronic diseases; cancer; inflammation; drug discovery

CSB

A/Prof Tim Bailey t.bailey@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2614

Pattern recognition algorithms; gene regulation

GCB 22

Dr Lachlan Coin l.coin@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2649

Algorithms for mapping genomic structural variation

GCB 22

Dr Nick Hamilton n.hamilton@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2033

Bioinformatics and mathematical processing of bioimages

GCB 23

Prof Sean Grimmond

Cancer genomics

GCB 23

b.hankamer@imb.uq.edu.au

j.martin@imb.uq.edu.au

s.grimmond@imb.uq.edu.au

334 62012

3346 2016

3346 2057

Prof Mark Ragan m.ragan@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2616 Quantitative inferences; scripting/ coding in Python, Perl, Java, Metlab or R for biology; infectious diseases; cancer

GCB 24

Dr Ryan Taft r.taft@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2080

Genetic diseases; epigenetics; RNA biology

GCB 24

Prof Kirill Alexandrov k.alexandrov@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2017

Proteins and protein complexes; molecular engineering; diagnostics

MCB 26

Dr Brett Collins b.collins@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2043

Intercellular protein transport; chronic diseases

MCB 26

Prof Rob Parton r.parton@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2032

Membrane microdomains; cancer and chronic diseases

MCB 27

Dr Kate Schroder k.schroder@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2058

Chronic and infectious diseases; inflammation and immunity

MCB 27

Prof Jenny Stow j.stow@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2159

Protein trafficking; inflammation and MCB 28 immunity; cancer and cancer biology; infectious diseases

Dr Matt Sweet m.sweet@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2082

Inflammation and immunity; infectious diseases

MCB 28

Name Email

Phone (+61 7)

Quick Index by Research Area

Research Page Division

A/Prof Rohan Teasdale r.teasdale@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2056

Protein trafficking; infectious diseases; diabetes

Prof Mike Waters m.waters@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2037

Growth hormone; cancer and cancer MCB 29 biology; diabetes and obesity; chronic diseases

Prof Alpha Yap a.yap@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2013

Cell-cell adhesion; morphogenesis; cancer and cancer biology

MCB 30

Dr Mathias Francois m.francois@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2060

Embryonic development – lymphatic vasculature; cancer

MGD 32

Dr Ben Hogan b.hogan@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2105

Embryonic development – vasculature; cancer

MGD 32

Prof Peter Koopman p.koopman@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2059

Embryonic development – gonads and sex determination; genetic disorders

MGD 33

Prof Melissa Little m.little@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2054

Embryonic development – stem cells, MGD 33 kidney; chronic diseases

Prof George Muscat

Obesity and diabetes; cancer; NHR

MGD 34

Dr Kelly Smith k.smith@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2050

Embryonic development – heart; genetic and chronic diseases

MGD 34

A/Prof Rick Sturm

Skin cancer

MGD 35

Prof Brandon Wainwright b.wainwright@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2053

Cancer and cancer biology of skin and brain

MGD 35

A/Prof Carol Wicking c.wicking@imb.uq.edu.au 3346 2052

Embryonic development – face and limbs; genetic disorders

MGD 36

g.muscat@imb.uq.edu.au

r.sturm@imb.uq.edu.au

Divisions: Chemistry and Structural Biology (CSB) Molecular Cell Biology (MCB)

3346 2222

3346 2038

MCB 29

Genomics and Computational Biology (GCB) Molecular Genetics and Development (MGD)

“The factor, which influenced my decision to study at IMB was the opportunity to work in a great environment with great scientists and the state-of-the-art facilities. One of the best things about studying at IMB is being in contact with different groups from which I could learn and with whom I could share knowledge. This is a quite unique quality of the IMB. I received the best preparation a PhD student could get. It prepared me to confidently work in academia in one of the finest Universities in the World. IMB represents a great opportunity to discover and explore more about the beauty of science in all its aspects. It is a great chance for any students in and outside Australia.” Maurizio Chioccioli, IMB Alumnus, Italy, Postdoctoral staff, University of Cambridge

Projects Research Title: Conotoxins that Target Chronic Pain Group Leader: Professor Paul Alewood Contact details: 3346 2982 or p.alewood@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

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

Summary of research interests: Our research focuses on identifying bioactive molecules from Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 toxins from these animals can have a devastating effect, molecules within them have been found to be useful in treating human disease. Specifically, we are interested in the discovery and total synthesis of potent and selective peptides (toxins) from venomous animals; the chemical synthesis of proteins and bioactive peptides; the development of new synthetic and analytical chemistry; and protein structure and function. Available Honours projects: Conotoxins are small bioactive highly structured peptides from the venom of marine cone snails (genus) Conus which comprise 100-2000 distinct cysteine-rich peptides for prey capture and defence. This project will focus on the discovery and characterisation of new conotoxins that are likely to target human receptors involved in chronic pain. Available PhD projects: Research projects involve the determination of the structure-function relationships of natural and designed bioactive molecules including the discovery, isolation and characterisation of toxins 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 seek further details by contacting Prof Paul Alewood at p.alewood@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Biodiscovery: Biodiversity and Biology, to Bioactives and Beyond Group Leader: Professor Robert Capon Contact details: 3346 2979 or r.capon@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

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

Summary of research interests: My research group focuses on the detection, isolation, characterisation, identification and evaluation of novel bioactive metabolites from Australian marine and terrestrial biodiversity. These metabolites span all known biosynthetic structure classes including many molecules new to science, and their study requires the use of sophisticated chromatographic, spectroscopic and chemical technologies. Natural products uncovered during our investigations represent valuable new leads in the search for drugs with application in the fields of human and animal health and crop protection, have potential as molecular probes to better interrogate and understand living systems, and could find application as biological control agents. Available Honours projects: Bacteria and fungi are a well-established source of valuable bioactive natural products, being both the inspiration behind, and the fuel that has driven the pharmaceutical (and agrochemical) industry over the last century. Microbial metabolites remain the key source of modern medicines, particularly antibiotics. Notwithstanding past success, future demands that we develop new knowledge and methodologies to probe the silent metabolism hidden deep within the microbial genome â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to reveal chemistry that will inform the development of future drugs. This project will employ microbiological and analytical chemistry technologies to stimulate, detect, isolate, identify and evaluate valuable new bioactive microbial natural products. Available PhD projects: The Capon research group has opportunities for a wide range of PhD research projects across the fields of marine and microbial biodiscovery, synthetic and medicinal chemistry, drug discovery and chemical ecology. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by visiting http://capon.imb.uq.edu.au and checking out the vacancies page.

Research Title: Drug Discovery and Diagnostics

Research Title: NMR Spectroscopy

Group Leader: Professor Matt Cooper

Group Leader: Professor David Craik

Contact details: 3346 2045 or info-coopergroup@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2019 or d.craik@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

Summary of research interests:

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

Summary of research interests: 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, COPD, type II diabetes and cancer. We have a major focus on the design and development of novel antibiotics active against drug-resistant bacteria, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;superbugsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11695

Our work focuses on applying NMR spectroscopy in drug design and development. By determining the structures of biologically active molecules it is possible to identify functional regions of these molecules and thus design novel drugs. We have a particular interest in stabilising proteins by joining their ends to make circular molecules. Available Honours projects: > Discovery and structural characterisation of medicinal plant proteins,

Available Honours projects:

> Structure-activity studies of conotoxins,

There are research projects available in the following areas: antibacterial and antifungal medicinal chemistry, small molecule inhibitors of inflammation, antibiotic mode of action studies, chemoinformatics, microbiology and nanotechnology for diagnostics.

> Design of novel anticancer agents,

Available PhD projects:

Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof David Craik at d.craik@imb.uq.edu.au.

Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Matt Cooper at info-coopergroup@imb.uq.edu.au.

> Protein engineering and drug design, > Molecular biology and evolution of cyclotides. Available PhD projects:

Projects Research Title: Chemistry and Human Therapeutics Group Leader: Professor David Fairlie Contact details: 3346 2989 or d.fairlie@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

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

Summary of research interests: Our group seeks to understand 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, synthesize and evaluate enzyme inhibitors, receptor antagonists and protein-binding ligands as new drugs for cancer, infectious diseases, inflammatory disorders, diabetes and obesity, and Alzheimer’s disease. New drugs discovered by our chemists are studied by biochemists, cell biologists and pharmacologists in our group for their effects on human cells and in animal models of human diseases. Available Honours projects: > Drug design - computer-assisted (molecular modeling, NMR structure determination), > Drug mechanisms of action (molecular pharmacology, cell biology, intracellular signalling studies), > Drug discovery - chemical synthesis and structure (organic/medicinal chemistry), > Drugs in disease (experimental pharmacology, inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, diabetes, cancers, Alzheimer’s disease). Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof David Fairlie at d.fairlie@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Microbial Structural Biology and Solar Biofuels from Algal Cells Group Leader: Professor Ben Hankamer Contact details: 334 62012 or b.hankamer@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/ structural-biology-of-membraneproteins-macromolecularassemblies-and-viruses-ben-hankamer

Summary of research interests: Our research focuses on the use of microalgae for the development of clean fuels to reduce CO2 emissions, increase energy security and enable sustainable economic development. Microalgae systems can use photosynthesis to convert solar to chemical energy for biomass and biofuel production and therefore are a promising platform for the production of renewable fuels. Light capture is the first step of photosynthesis and consequently its optimization is essential for the development of high-efficiency microalgal processes. The projects below use molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology (predominantly electron cryo-microscopy {EM}) to guide the development of algal cells optimized in light capture. We are also interested in using cryoEM to study the structural basis of other microbial phenomena including virus infection and bacterial pathogenesis. Available Honours projects: > Transcript and protein analysis of light harvesting complex proteins in the high hydrogen producing algal strain Stm6Glc4L01; This project is focused on improving solar driven H2 production from water using microalgae. > Structure analysis of high hydrogen producing algae strain Stm6Glc4L01 using electron microscopy; This project is focused on understanding the effect of light harvesting proteins on thylakoid membrane ultrastructure. > Isolation and structural characterisation of the Cyclic-electron flow – Photosystem I super complex using electron microscopy and single particle analysis; The recently discovered CEF-PSI complex is a ~1MDa membrane protein complex thought to regulate cyclic electron transport. Understanding its structure is important for the field of photosynthesis and renewable energy. > Towards high efficiency microalgae cultivation; This project involves pilot scale microalgae cultivation in raceway pond systems and/ or photo-bioreactors and will involve biomass and water analyses. > Determining the structure of host endosomal sorting complexes (ESCRTs) that are hijacked during infection by enveloped viruses including HIV. Contact Dr Michael Landsberg at m.landsberg@imb.uq.edu.au. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Ben Hankamer at b.hankamer@imb.uq.edu.au or Dr Michael Landsberg at m.landsberg@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Venomics as a Drug and Insecticide Discovery Platform

Group Leader: Professor Richard Lewis

Group Leader: Professor Glenn King

Website:

Contact details: 3346 2025 or glenn.king@imb.uq.edu.au

Summary of research interests:

Website:

My group focuses on the discovery and biochemical characterisation of venoms and marine toxins, including conotoxins produced by cone snails to rapidly immobilise their prey, and the ciguatoxins responsible for ciguatera. These toxins modulate a variety of membrane-bound proteins, including sodium and calcium channels, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (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 SAR, we are further developing the potential of these interesting molecules, particularly in the area of pain research.

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=56210

Summary of research interests: Animal venoms are increasingly important 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 biologically active 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 structural venomics pipeline that allows protein structures to be determined via NMR at an unprecedented rate. Available Honours projects: > Screening spider venoms for peptides targeted at ion channels involved in sensing pain, and examination of their analgesic potential in animals. > Discovery of novel insecticidal and antimalarial compounds > Structural and functional characterisation of venom peptides > 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

Contact details: 3346 2984 or r.lewis@imb.uq.edu.au http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11701

Available Honours projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Richard Lewis at r.lewis@imb.uq.edu.au. Available PhD projects: > Use of functional cell-based assays for the discovery of novel analgesic venom peptides from cone snails > Integrate proteomics and transcriptomics to investigate the evolution of cone snail venoms. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Richard Lewis at r.lewis@imb.uq.edu.au.

> Developing methods for automated protein structure determination via NMR. Available PhD projects: The King research group has opportunities for a wide range of PhD research projects. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Glenn King at glenn.king@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Molecular Pharmacology of Venoms

Projects Research Title: Protein Crystallography and Drug Design Group Leader: Professor Jenny Martin Contact details: 3346 2016 or j.martin@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/proteinstructure-drug-design-jenny-martin

Research Title: Combinatorial Chemistry and Molecular Design Group Leader: Professor Mark Smythe Contact details: 3346 2977 or m.smythe@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11703

Summary of research interests:

Antibiotic resistance is a serious and growing problem in modern medicine; as more bacteria develop multidrug resistance, fewer new antibiotic drugs are being brought to market, creating the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;perfect stormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Where is the next antibiotic going to come from? Many bacteria encode a family of DSB (DiSulfide Bond) proteins that are essential for bacterial virulence because they add structural bracing to secreted and membrane-integral virulence factors. Little is known about how this DSB protein machinery operates in the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Characterisation of DSB proteins in this pathogen, particularly the membrane protein DsbB, using bioinformatics, structural biology and biochemical approaches, will enable us to expand our knowledge of bacterial pathogenicity and could underpin structure-based drug design of new bacterial inhibitors.

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.

Available Honours projects:

> High-throughput sequencing to identify, describe and diagnose previously inexplicable leukodystrophies,

Honours projects are subject to availability. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Jenny Martin at j.martin@imb.uq.edu.au.

Available Honours projects:

> Development of bioinformatics tools to reveal rare Mendelian variants associated with paediatric disorders, > Development of tools and approaches to understand the effect of novel variants. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Mark Smythe at p.smythe@imb.uq.edu.au.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The IMB Honours experience equips students with transferrable skills like independent learning and research, effective communication and critical thinking that are applicable to both academic and non-academic careers. The IMB is recognized for the discovery of new drugs and techniques that inhibit or reduce the spread of infectious diseases, cancer and other viruses. The Division of Chemistry and Structural Biology, where I study, builds innovative solutions to find cures for diseases.â&#x20AC;? Anna Wirija, BSc Honours program, Indonesia

Projects Research Title: Pattern Recognition and Computational Biology Group Leader: Associate Professor Tim Bailey Contact details: 3346 2614 or t.bailey@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/patternrecognition-and-modelling-incomputational-biology-tim-bailey

Summary of research interests: Our group develops and applies pattern recognition algorithms for computational biology. We are particularly interested in aiding the elucidation of the mechanisms of genetic regulation. We are developing algorithms to identify transcription factor binding sites and search for cis-regulatory modules. To do this, we leverage many techniques in probabilistic modelling and machine learning. These include hidden Markov models and support vector machines. We are also interested in mining genome and transcriptome databases for biological knowledge. To do this, we utilise a wealth of existing bioinformatics tools, as well as develop new ones. Available Honours projects: Honours projects are subject to availability. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Tim Bailey at t.bailey@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Population Genomics Group Leader: Dr Lachlan Coin Contact details: 3346 2649 or l.coin@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/lachlan-coin

Summary of research interests: 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. Available Honours projects: > 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. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Lachlan Coin at l.coin@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Modelling, Visualisation and Classification of Bio-Imaging

Research Title: Expression Genomics

Group Leader: Dr Nick Hamilton

Contact details: 3346 2057 or s.grimmond@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2033 or n.hamilton@imb.uq.edu.au Website: http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=91481 Summary of research interests: Bio-imaging is undergoing rapid growth. High throughput screens for drug and genomic discovery are leading to massive image sets in need of new methods of modelling, analysis, classification, feature extraction, organisation, visualisation, comparison, hypothesis testing and inference. The core of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research is to develop the methodologies, algorithms and tools to maximise the benefit of the new data sources becoming available. The group collaborates closely with cell biology, bioinformatics and mathematics groups in creating these methodologies and utilises and develops techniques in areas such as machine learning, data clustering, graph algorithms, image segmentation, statistical testing and mathematical modelling.

Group Leader: Professor Sean Grimmond

Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/ expression-genomics-sean-grimmond

Summary of research interests:

> Mathematical modelling of biological systems from microscopy imaging

Next-generation sequencing of tumours is providing researchers with a better understanding of the molecular changes which occur during tumourigenesis. Cataloging these events, which are present in individual tumours, and identification of tumour-specific pathways will enable targeted therapy to become a reality. Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive form of disease with a median survival of six months. Less than 5 percent of patients will survive beyond five years. Current treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited, and alternative therapies need to be identified. As part of the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) we will be sequencing the genome, transcriptome and epigenome of 350 pancreatic tumours and matched normal samples. There are a variety of projects available for students interested in cancer genomics including laboratory validation of findings from the ICGC project and the computational analysis of next-generation sequence data.

> Information visualisation and clustering methodologies

Available Honours projects:

See Hamilton Labâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website for further information on the group and its interests or contact Nick to discuss ideas for projects.

Honours projects are subject to availability.

Available Honours projects: Projects areas include:

Available PhD projects:

Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Nic Waddell at n.waddell@imb.uq.edu.au.

Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Nick Hamilton at n.hamilton@imb.uq.edu.au.

Projects Research Title: Comparative and Computational Genomics Group Leader: Professor Mark Ragan Contact details: 3346 2616 or m.ragan@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/ computational-genomics-mark-ragan

Summary of research interests: 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. Available Honours projects: Honours projects could include data integration, data analysis and/or computational inference for: > Gene exchange and genetic recombination in pathogenic bacteria, > Gene exchange and genetic recombination across entire microbial ecosystems, > Genes for brain development, social behaviour and cognition in the Neandertal genome, > Networks of molecular interactions and genetic regulation in cancer, > Protein interaction domains and the evolution of new cellular functions. Some project areas require expertise in scripting/coding eg. in Python, Perl, Java, Matlab or R. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Mark Ragan at m.ragan@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Deciphering the Unconventional Genetics of Complex Life and Inherited Disease Group Leader: Dr Ryan Taft Contact details: 3346 2080 or r.taft@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu. au/?page=172333

Summary of research interests: My lab uses the latest hardware, software and laboratory technologies to answer pressing biological and medical questions, with the hope of explaining fundamental genetic processes and unravelling previously mysterious inherited diseases. We are currently focused on two key areas: (1) the role of RNA in the regulation of epigenetics, and (2) the use of high-throughput DNA sequencing technologies to identify genes disrupted in childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. To tackle both of these problems, we use a combination of bioinformatics, molecular genetics and biochemistry - our team is made up of both hard-core programmers and scientists with more than 30 years of laboratory bench experience. While the short-term aim is to tackle each of these projects on their own merits, the lab’s long view is that eventually we will be able to combine our knowledge of the RNA world, its influence on epigenetics and whole-genome sequencing to completely understand (and in some cases diagnose) a range of inherited and acquired illnesses. Available Honours projects: > The characterisation of tiny RNAs and other chromatin-associated RNA species using high-throughput sequencing and various RNA capture methodologies, > Expression and functional analysis of sno-derived RNAs (sdRNAs) associated with the Prader-Willi Syndrome locus. Available PhD projects: > Wet-lab and bioinformatics characterization of novel classes of smallRNA, with particular attention to “genic” small RNAs of unknown function, > Identification of novel disease genes associated with inherited neurological diseases called leukodystrophies, and the characterization of those genes in animal models. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Ryan Taft at r.taft@imb.uq.edu.au.

Dr Martin Smith, who was awarded UQ’s 10,000th PhD, IMB Alumnus, Canada

“I was initially attracted by the work published by a research group at the IMB, which I went on to join. The highlight for me was always the variety of research subjects, equipment and techniques present under one roof. Interacting with members of other labs around vastly expanded my research interests, and some of these interactions resulted in productive collaborations. In my view, such diversity and high quality of research also contributes to bring students from all over the world and with diverse interests to the IMB, contributing to make its social environmental very rich, which is another feature that I thoroughly enjoyed.” Paulo Amaral, IMB Alumnus, Brazil, Postdoctoral staff, University of Cambridge

Projects Research Title: Molecular Engineering: Better Tools, Better Science, Better Life

Research Title: Structural Biology of Membrane Trafficking and Remodeling

Group Leader: Professor Kirill Alexandrov

Group Leader: Dr Brett Collins

Contact details: 334 62077 or k.alexandrov@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2043 or b.collins@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

Summary of research interests:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=83129

Summary of research interests: The ability to replicate the building blocks of life, such as DNA and proteins, 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. While the structural and functional information is encoded in a single protein molecule, accessing this information is technically and economically challenging. This constitutes a critical technological bottleneck that determines the pace of progress in many areas of biology and biotechnology. The problems become particularly aggravating when analysis of complex protein machines is attempted. 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 the 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. Available Honours projects: > 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. Available PhD projects: > Development of point of care diagnostic devices based on synthetic protein receptors and signal amplification cascades Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Kirill Alexandrov at k.alexandrov@imb.uq.edu.au.

Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=82433

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 Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Available Honours projects: > Determining structures of novel proteins involved in cellular trafficking by X-ray crystallography, > Biochemically characterising how specific membrane lipids regulate protein recruitment to cellular organelles. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Brett Collins at b.collins@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: The Cell Surface in Health and Disease Group Leader: Professor Rob Parton Contact details: 3346 2032 or r.parton@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11688

Summary of research interests: Our research focuses on the organisation, dynamics, and functions of the plasma membrane. We use electron microscopy, real-time light microscopy, molecular biology, and biochemistry to examine the dynamics and microdomain organisation of the plasma membrane, especially the function of domains termed caveolae. These are involved in signal transduction and lipid regulation and have been linked to disease states such as muscular dystrophy and cancer. Available Honours projects: > The role of caveolae in the zebrafish, > Functional analysis of mutations in caveolin-3 associated with muscular dystrophy. Available PhD projects: > Novel endocytic pathways in mammalian cells: role in cell migration, > Structure and function of novel caveolar coat proteins, > The role of caveolae in mechanosensation, > Development and application of a novel targeted drug delivery system, > Application of novel EM techniques to study caveolae in cultured cells and zebrafish embryos. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Rob Parton at r.parton@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Inflammasomes in Infection and Inflammatory Disease Group Leader: Dr Kate Schroder Contact details: 3346 2058 or k.schroder@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/ kate-schroder

Summary of research interests: 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. Available Honours projects: > Mechanisms of inflammasome-dependent cell death, > Inflammasome signalling in human cells during infection, > Inflammasome pathway dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Kate Schroder at k.schroder@imb.uq.edu.au.

Projects

Research Title: Protein Trafficking in Inflammation and Cancer

Research Title: Pathogen Surveillance, Innate Immunity and Inflammation

Group Leader: Professor Jenny Stow

Group Leader: Dr Matt Sweet

Contact details: 3346 2159 or j.stow@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2082 or m.sweet@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

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

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/matt-sweet

Summary of research interests:

We study the sorting, intracellular trafficking and secretion of biologically and medically important proteins using advanced cell and molecular biology techniques including fluorescence imaging, gene expression and RNAi. Key trafficking pathways in macrophages ensure that invading microbes are eaten or phagocytosed and that the cells respond by secreting cytokines, antimicrobial peptides and other factors to fight infection and to mount protective inflammatory responses. These same processes go awry in some infectious diseases and in inflammatory disease. Our studies are aimed at defining the relevant genes, proteins, cell compartments and potential drug targets. We are also interested in cellular mechanisms for sorting and polarity of protein secretion in macrophages, epithelial cells, cancer cells and other cells. We study individual trafficking genes and proteins and take a more systems-based approach to studies on whole families of trafficking proteins.

My group studies the innate immune system. Innate immune cells, such as macrophages, express a broad repertoire of pattern recognition receptors. 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 signaling 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).

Available Honours projects: > Fluorescent imaging of cytokines in live macrophages; identification of Rabs, SNAREs and other trafficking genes, > Phagocytosis and endocytosis of bacteria by macrophages; host-pathogen interactions,

Available Honours projects: > Role of protein deacetylases in promoting TLR-mediated inflammation > The role of zinc and TLR-regulated zinc trafficking in human macrophage responses to bacterial pathogens > Mechanisms of macrophage pyroptosis triggered by uropathogenic E. coli > Functional analysis of novel TLR target genes. Available PhD projects:

> Endosome function in secretion; sorting and the immune response,

> Targeting Histone Deacetylases in macrophage-mediated inflammation

> Protein sorting and cell polarity in epithelia and cancer.

> Characterization of subversion mechanisms employed by Salmonella

Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Jennifer Stow at j.stow@imb.uq.edu.au.

> Typhimurium against zinc-mediated host defence > Defining the role of macrophages in uropathogenic E.coli-mediated urinary tract infections > Characterization of TLR/GPCR cross-talk that impacts macrophage-mediated antimicrobial responses and inflammation. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Matt Sweet at m.sweet@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Endosomal Dynamics and Pathogen Invasion

Research Title: Growth Hormone Action and Cytokine Signalling

Group Leader: Associate Professor Rohan Teasdale

Group Leader: Professor Mike Waters

Contact details: 3346 2056 or r.teasdale@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2037 or m.waters@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11682

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11721

Summary of research interests:

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.

Postnatal growth is a complex process driven by growth hormone (GH). GH also regulates carbohydrate, lipid and phase1/2 hepatic metabolism. Absence of GH results in lifespan extension in mice and no deaths due to cancer or diabetes in humans. We study the mechanistic basis for these actions at all levels. Of particular interest is determining the molecular movements responsible for receptor activation of JAK-STAT signalling, and extending our model of this to other cytokine receptors. We also study why GH is essential for cancer progression, particularly prostate cancer, and how it promotes fat burning and opposes obesity using genetically engineered mouse models, microarrays and viral transduction.

Numerous infectious pathogens exploit specific endocytic pathways to invade the host. Characterization 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, a leading cause of human gastroenteritis and Chlamydia a major sexually transmitted pathogen. 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. Available Honours projects: > Defining the essential host proteins required for intra cellular bacterial pathogen infection. These host proteins represent attractive therapeutic targets. > RNAi screening to further define essential proteins for a range of endosome associated pathways targeted by bacterial pathogens.

Available Honours projects: > Molecular mechanism for activation of the receptor by GH and coupling to JAK2 and Src kinase activation, > Role of GH/STAT5 in preventing obesity, > Role of GH/STAT5 in promoting cancer, > Role of GH/STAT5 in promoting diabetes, > Mechanism of longevity conferred by loss of GH-dependent STAT5 signalling, > Mechanism of signalling by GH receptor directly in the nucleus and its relation to cancer progression. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Mike Waters at m.waters@imb.uq.edu.au.

> Defining the molecular and cellular properties of retromer’s function in neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Rohan Teasdale at r.teasdale@imb.uq.edu.au.

Projects Research Title: Cadherin Signalling and Morphogenesis Group Leader: Professor Alpha Yap Contact details: 3346 2013 or a.yap@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11722

Summary of research interests: 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. Available Honours projects: Potential honors projects are based on current developments in the group; indicative projects include: > How junctional mechanics contributes to tumor cell invasion. > Cell-cell junctions and cell migration. Available PhD projects: We develop projects for students based on developments in our work and the individual interests of the students. Therefore the following are purely indicative: > Dynamic cytoskeletal organization at cadherin junctions: its regulation in health and disease. > Regulation and dysregulation of junctional mechanics: impact for epithelial organization. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Alpha Yap at a.yap@imb.uq.edu.au.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The IMB is a multicultural institute with a lot of great opportunities to improve your skills. My learning experience in the lab is increasing every day, and I am sure that it will help my research career. I aim for a PhD position and I am sure that doing my master thesis at the IMB will help me to reach my goal. Brisbane is a great city with friendly people and a nice river. I like working in St Lucia with the beautiful campus. I have made a lot of new friends from all over the world. Everyone should try to go abroad for studies or courses. It is a great experience! It was really worth the effort and the distance from home. That is the reason why I extended my stay here. I hope that I will get good results from my experiments soon and that I can write about it in my master thesis or maybe even publications.â&#x20AC;? Sarah Piper, Research Experience at IMB, Masters in Germany

Projects Research Title: The Lymphatic Vascular Tree in Development and Disease

Research Title: Molecular Genetics of Vascular Development

Group Leader: Dr Mathias Francois

Group Leader: Dr Ben Hogan

Contact details: 3346 2060 or m.francois@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2105 or b.hogan@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=167712

Summary of research interests:

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.

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 highresolution 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.

Available Honours projects:

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

> Analysis of signalling pathways in lymphatic vascular development in zebrafish,

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

> Molecular characterisation of novel zebrafish mutants that fail to form lymphatic vessels,

> Validation of novel molecular targets and assessment of their druggability to develop novel anti-cancer agents. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Mathias Francois at m.francois@imb.uq.edu.au.

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

> Generation of transgenic lines to label and image cells of the developing vasculature. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Ben Hogan at b.hogan@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Molecular Genetics of Mammalian Development

Research Title: Molecular Basis of Kidney Development, Disease and Regeneration

Group Leader: Professor Peter Koopman

Group Leader: Professor Melissa Little

Contact details: 3346 2059 or p.koopman@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2054 or m.little@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

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

Summary of research interests: Work in my laboratory is aimed at isolating genes involved in cell differentiation and organogenesis, and studying their expression, regulation, function and interaction in the mammalian embryo, using mice as an experimental model. Areas of special interest include sex determination, gonadal organogenesis and germ cell development. Aside from the basic science of understanding the molecular and cellular events underpinning these processes, this work is increasingly being applied to medical and biotechnological outcomes, namely the understanding and management of human genetic disorders (including sex disorders, fertility management and cancer) pest and livestock biotechnology, stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, drug discovery and novel routes to transgenesis. Available Honours projects: > Identification and functional study of sex-specific genes, > Control of meiosis in germ cells. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Peter Koopman at p.koopman@imb.uq.edu.au.

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

Summary of research interests: The kidney is a complex but vital organ that not only filters the blood to produce urine but also regulates blood pressure, red blood cell production and produces hormones and growth factors. If your kidneys fail, current treatment involves long-term dialysis or organ transplantation, both of which have considerable side effects. As the prevalence of chronic renal failure is increasing at 7 percent per annum, this provides a strong imperative to the development of novel therapies. There is also a growing awareness that your individual predisposition to renal failure can be determined in utero, in that the number of functional units (nephrons) per kidney is inversely related to renal function later in life. The projects underway in my laboratory all focus around the kidney, and cover molecular developmental biology, stem cell biology and experimental nephrology. By understanding how the kidney arises in the first place, what can go wrong during development and what can go wrong to give you renal disease, we hope to progress novel approaches to treatment. This involves understanding the progenitors that give rise to the kidney, how the kidney responds to damage and whether renal stem cells remain in the adult kidney. With the advent of reprogramming technology, we also have an interest in recreating renal stem cells or differentiating embryonic stem cells to renal progenitors. Available Honours projects: > Modelling cell turnover in the developing kidney, > Analysis of the effect of hypoxia on nephrogenesis, > Characterisation of adult renal stem cells. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Melissa Little at m.little@imb.uq.edu.au.

Projects Research Title: Nuclear Receptors and Metabolism Group Leader: Professor George Muscat Contact details: 3346 2039 or g.muscat@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11687

Summary of research interests: Our research focuses on elucidating the functional role of nuclear hormone receptors in the regulation of metabolism in the context of metabolic disease (e.g. dyslipidaemia, diabetes and obesity) and breast cancer. The nuclear hormone receptors (NR) 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. Metabolic disease increases the risk and incidence of cancer. The significance of NRs in human health is emphasised by the array of pharmaceuticals that target NRs in the context of reproduction, inflammation, metabolic and endocrine diseases. The majority of our research is focused on skeletal muscle, because NRs are expressed in skeletal muscle, which is a peripheral tissue that accounts for ~40 percent of the total body mass and energy expenditure, and is a major site of fatty acid and glucose oxidation. Consequently, muscle has a significant role in insulin sensitivity, the blood lipid profile, and energy balance. The objective of our current research is to examine the role of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;orphanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; NRs in metabolic disease, and breast cancer. We are testing the hypothesis that the orphan NRs, for example RORs and NR4As, control pathophysiological the process in metabolic disease and cancer. Available Honours projects: > Understanding resistance to diet-induced obesity and fatty liver disease in ROR-deficient mice, > Understanding the role of the adrenergic sensitive NR4A receptors in endurance exercise and resitance to diet induced obesity, > Analysing the role of chromatin remodeling enzymes (histone methyltransferases) in glycogen metabolism and storage diseases. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof George Muscat at g.muscat@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Genetics and Cell Biology of Cardiac Development Group Leader: Dr Kelly Smith Contact details: 3346 2050 or k.smith@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

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

Summary of research interests: My research aims to understand how to build a heart. The heart is critical for our survival and any structural mistakes (collectively known as Congenital Heart Defects) or any failure to restore cardiac function (resulting in heart failure) is catastrophic for survival. In order to repair such defects, we first need to understand how the heart is formed. Every time an embryo develops, it makes a heart, and we hijack this process to study heart organogenesis. Using the translucent zebrafish model, we employ fluorescent transgenic reporter strains and genetic mutant lines to interrogate the cellular and genetic regulation of cardiac morphogenesis. These tools allow us to watch the heart as it develops in real-time and to determine which genetic defects impact on cardiac development. Understanding how the heart develops and what can go wrong is the first step toward understanding repair-based therapies. Available Honours projects: > Generation and characterisation of novel cardiac trans-genic lines, > Positional cloning and characterisation of zebrafish cardiac mutants, > Dissecting the role of the valve primordium in cardiac morphogenesis. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Kelly Smith at k.smith@imb.uq.edu.au.

Research Title: Molecular Genetics of Pigmentation and Melanoma

Research Title: Tissue Repair and Cancer

Group Leader: Associate Professor Rick Sturm

Contact details: 334 62110 or b.wainwright@imb.uq.edu.au

Contact details: 3346 2038 or r.sturm@imb.uq.edu.au

Website:

Summary of research interests:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11690

Summary of research interests: Melanocytes produce the melanin pigments responsible for skin, hair and eye colour. Darker forms of melanin protect the skin from solar radiation exposure, however melanocytes are also the cell type from which malignant melanoma can originate. We are studying the human pigmentation system to understand the genetic basis of cellular differentiation, tissue-specific gene expression and cellular transformation induced by solar UV light. Available Honours projects: > Genetics of human pigmentation including comparing individuals of high and low mole number, and looking at genes controlling mole morphology, > Cell biology of human pigmentation, whereby the laboratory is growing primary cultures of human melanocytes alone or together with keratinocytes to assay function of genes. Specific projects listed on www.imb.uq.edu.au/index.html?page=11690. Available PhD projects:

Group Leader: Professor Brandon Wainwright http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11673

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. Available Honours projects: Projects in the area of control of tumour and stem cell growth will be offered. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Prof Brandon Wainwright at b.wainwright@imb.uq.edu.au.

Role of MC1R alleles in skin cancer risk phenotypes: This project investigates the biological effects of common polymorphisms within the human MC1R gene that associate with hair colour and sun sensitive skin types. Skin cell culture models will be used to investigate the role of MC1R in the response of skin to ultraviolet light including the mechanisms of tanning and DNA repair. Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting Dr Rick Sturm at r.sturm@imb.uq.edu.au.

Projects Research Title: Developmental Genes and Human Disease Group Leader: Associate Professor Carol Wicking Contact details: 3346 2052 or c.wicking@imb.uq.edu.au Website:

http://www.imb.uq.edu.au/?page=11691

Summary of research interests: 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 signaling 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. Available Honours projects: > Characterisation of novel mouse models of ciliopathies, > Functional analysis of novel skeletal cilopathy genes arising from whole-exome sequencing. Available PhD projects: Interested applicants are encouraged to seek further details by contacting A/Prof Carol Wicking at c.wicking@imb.uq.edu.au.

IMB Open Day 2014 IMB welcomes you to attend the information session for students who will commence their research program in 2014-15 When: Wednesday, 2 April 2014, 12pm-1.30pm Venue: IMB, Building 80, please come to the reception foyer. Come to the IMB to meet our researchers, see our facilities, find out about available projects and discuss how to apply for Honours and PhD programs. Register at: postgraduate.imb.uq.edu.au/honours

Important Information: More 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: http://www.uq.edu.au/international-students http://ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/ 3.40.03-international-student-refunds UQ Policies and Procedures in relation to the RHD students can be found on: http://ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/4.60-researchhigher-degree-candidates

UQ Policies and Procedures in relation to UQ students rights and responsibilities, including student grievance resolution the appeal process can be found on: http://ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/3.60-studentrights-and-responsibilities The provision of education services to international students by Australian education institutions is governed by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2007 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, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) and the Universities Australia code of ethical practice. www.dest.gov.au/esos The inclusion in this publication of program details creates no obligation on the part of the Institute and the University to deliver it as or when described. The Institute and the University may discontinue or vary programs at any time without notice. Information in this brochure is accurate as at June, 2013. While care has been taken to provide accurate information in this brochure, it is a responsibility of students to check and confirm specific details.

Contact Details

Dr Amanda Carozzi Postgraduate Administrative Officer Phone. 07 3346 2122 Fax. 07 3346 2101 Email. postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au

Olga Chaourova Postgraduate Engagement Officer Phone. 07 3346 2196 Fax. 07 3346 2101 Email. postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au

Cody Mudgway Postgraduate Administrative Assistant Phone. 07 334 62133 Fax. 07 33462101 Email. postgrad-office@imb.uq.edu.au

This publication was produced by the IMB Postgraduate office. Graphic Design Naomi White 37

Institute for Molecular Bioscience Building 80, 306 Carmody Road The University of Queensland St Lucia Qld 4072 Telephone: +61 7 3346 2222 Fax: +61 7 3346 2101 Email: imb@imb.uq.edu.au Website: www.imb.uq.edu.au CRICOS Provider Number 00025B