New mechanisms regulating the biogenesis of extracellular vesicles

About this project

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane-bound packages that contain active components derived from the cell of origin. These vesicles, released by most cell types, are critical for communication between cells. This HDR project is aligned with an Australian Research Council funded project that seeks to understand how protein modification via ubiquitination regulates the biogenesis and release of EVs, with the ultimate goal being to identify new molecular machinery involved in this process. We are using a suite of contemporary and innovative molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, and proteomics approaches to address the aims of the project.

The results from this highly topical study are expected to reveal novel regulatory mechanisms of EV biogenesis and release. Unravelling the fundamental processes behind cell and molecular biology at this level will have a significant impact on a range of important fields, such as EVs, ubiquitination and cell homeostasis, and could potentially lead to novel ways to manipulate EV production for applications in biotechnology and related fields.

What you’ll do

Work under the supervision of your supervisors to coordinate and manage all aspects of the research work. This includes project planning, conducting experiments, analysing data, preparing presentations, and drafting publications/reports.
Additionally, you will actively contribute to the research process by participating in planning sessions, suggesting new research directions, and reviewing relevant literature. Your role will also involve routine laboratory tasks, data mining, and ensuring compliance with safety and ethical standards in the work environment. You will maintain daily records of research activities and present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.

Where you’ll be based

Centre for Cancer Biology (CCB) is located at the University of South Australia’s City West campus. The CCB is an alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, representing the largest concentration of cancer research in South Australia. CCB fosters high-quality postgraduate studies and provides exceptional expertise to train the next generation of researchers. This commitment is underscored by a comprehensive mentoring and career development program led by renowned group leaders. The CCB upholds excellence in research, sets high expectations, and demonstrates a strong commitment to graduate education.

Both the CCB and UniSA offer outstanding resources, including state-of-the-art two-photon and high-speed, high-resolution confocal microscopes, NS300 for EV analysis, genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, and advanced animal care facilities.

The CCB publishes approximately 100 scientific articles in high-impact journals each year, providing an ideal environment for the next generation of research leaders to thrive. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 (2025 rate) per annum is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $52,352 (2025 rate) per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship, please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from both Domestic and International applicants.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD.

Additionally, applicants must meet the project selection criteria:

• Honours or Master degree with laboratory experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and/or Cell Biology

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and be based at our City West Campus in the heart of Adelaide. Note that international students on a student visa will need to study full-time.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Thursday 12 December 2024.