MPhil scholarship miRNA bioinformatics

Faculty of Medicine,University of Sydney

This scholarship is funded by the Faculty of Medicine and will provide support over one year, on a full time basis, for research leading to the award of Master of Philosophy.

MicroRNAs have become one of the most exciting areas in molecular cell biology in recent years as they have essential roles in many aspects of normal blood cell production and malignant transformation. We have built a team of scientists committed to exploring aspects of microRNA function and will train a student in their study using bioinformatics tools. The objective of the research project is to develop bioinformatics algorithms for the identification and characterisation of microRNAs important in hemopoiesis.

Applicants should have, or be expecting to complete in 2007, an Honours Class 1 degree from an Australian University (or equivalent) in bioinformatics with strong programming skills in either PERL or Java. Previous experience in relevant areas of bioinformatics including: miRNA prediction algorithms, sequence analysis, motif prediction, or the use of the gene ontology would be an advantage. Applicants must be Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens. The award of the scholarship is conditional on the successful applicant being offered a place to undertake a Master of Philosophy through the Faculty of Medicine.

The scholarship stipend is from $24,851 up to $28,000 depending on experience.

Applications are invited from individuals able to commence study in Semester 2, 2007 as well as those currently completing their Honours year and seeking to commence postgraduate study in Semester 1, 2008.

For further information, contact: Dr Jonathan Arthur (Ph: 02 9036 3132 E-mail: jarthur@med.usyd.edu.au) or Professor John Rasko (Ph: 02 9565 6156 Email: j.rasko@centenary.usyd.edu.au).

Applications, including a curriculum vitae, copy of an academic transcript including full publication details of any papers or conference presentations, proof of citizenship or permanent residency, the names and contact details of at least two referees should be sent to Dr Jonathan Arthur, Medical Foundation Building, K25, The University of Sydney NSW 2006.

Closing Date: Friday 27 July, 2007.