PhD Scholarship: Unlocking the Mechanobiological Events through Microfluidic Approaches

Job Description

We are currently looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate that is passionate about exploring the intricate world of mechanobiology. The successful candidate will contribute to a transdisciplinary research program funded by the Australian Research Council (DP250104387), titled: “Unlocking the mechanobiological events in oxygen unloading by erythrocytes”. The primary focus of this role is to use microfluidic platforms with integrated optical physics platforms to evaluate real-time oxygen release by erythrocytes during exposure to mechanical force. This project includes working alongside a transdisciplinary team focused on mechanobiology, incorporating expertise in biophysics, rheology, physiology, and multi-omics approaches. Success in this role will also lead to opportunities to contribute to projects with industry partners (e.g., medical device developers) and clinical research (e.g., cardiothoracic surgery, intensive care).

The successful candidate will be based at Griffith University, Gold Coast. As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations.

Qualifications

The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will have a background in physics, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, mechanical engineering, or a related field. You will have evidence of a passion for pushing boundaries beyond normal disciplinary limits and revel in developing bespoke systems. You are strongly motivated to conduct research that is rooted in excellent fundamentals, but care that your work may one day contribute to real-world applications.

• Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
• Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class/Second class division A honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure.  For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.

Please note:

• Background or experience in microfluidics and/or biophysics, is highly desired.

International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

1. A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
2. A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
3. A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19