microRNA Translational Research

Funding Body:
The Kolling Institute of Medical Research

Funding Source:
Sydney Medical School Foundation

Description:
The Kolling Institute of Medical Research is the principal centre of health and medical research affiliated with the Northern Sydney Local Health District. As a centre of research excellence the Kolling has a major role in research training through the Sydney Medical School (Northern Clinical School) of the University of Sydney.

The Cancer Genetics Adrenal Laboratory studies neoplasms of the adrenal cortex (adrenocortical tumours) and of the adrenal medulla (phaeochromocytomas). Overall the work focuses on discovering markers to assist with the early identification of malignancy, and finding genes which will lead to a greater understanding of the pathogenesis of adrenal tumours and thereby ultimately improving the clinical management of these patients and their families. Adrenocortical cancer (ACC) is an aggressive malignancy with limited treatment options. Recent studies have shown that a number of microRNAs are down-regulated in ACC, indicating their potential as a tumour suppressor gene and therapeutic target.

We are pleased to offer a PhD scholarship to a skilled and motivated PhD candidate to join our translational research team headed by Professor Stan Sidhu. We are seeking applications from outstanding medical science/biology graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in translation medical research, in particular cancer research. The role involves an interdisciplinary research project elucidating the mechanism of microRNA as a tumour suppressor gene and potential therapeutic target in ACC. This project will provide an opportunity to gain experience in cancer genetics, cell biology and cancer translational research.

The successful full-time candidates will be supervised by Dr Jing Ting Zhao and Professor Stan Sidhu and. The position is located in the Cancer Genetics Group of the Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonard, NSW, 2065.

Eligibility:
The successful candidate will have:

• Bachelor of Medical Science/Biology with Class I Honours or equivalent
• Demonstrated commitment to quality and detailed research experiments and analysis of results.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work as a part of team
• Australian citizenship or permanent residency

Amount awarded:
$25,392 per annum (tax exempt), up to 3 years. The stipend rate is indexed annually on 1st January.

Application guide:
To submit an application for this position please email directly to Dr Jing Ting Zhao at [email protected].

• Applications should include a cover letter with a brief research statement addressing the above criteria, a current CV including names of two referees and a copy of your Academic Transcripts.
• All enquiries are forwarded to Dr Jing Ting Zhao on the email above or (02) 9926 4769.

Students with an interest in cancer genetics, endocrinology and related fields of translational medicine are encouraged to apply.

Closing date:
10th October 2014