Research Supervisor Connect

Regulation of stem cell behaviour using functional biomolecules

Summary

Investigate and develop new ways of manipulating different aspects of stem cell behaviour.  This knowledge paves the way towards understanding their fundamental biology and creating new technology for clinical applications.

Supervisor

Dr Giselle Yeo.

Research location

School of Life and Environmental Sciences

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

Stem cells such as mesenchymal stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells are the future of personalised regenerative medicine.  You will investigate how extracellular matrix proteins and soluble factors interact to create an optimal environment for these stem cells.  Based on your preference, you can focus on understanding the mechanistic basis of stem cell regulation, from cell adhesion and expansion, to the maintenance of stem cell properties and directed differentiation into specialised cell types.  Alternatively, you can choose to develop functional materials that recreate the native stem cell environment which can be used to induce stem cell responses for tissue repair and regeneration.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a field that is attracting global attention and research effort.  You will learn a variety of useful techniques, including stem cell culture, cell and protein assays, fluorescence/confocal microscopy and flow cytometry among many others.

Additional information

The successful student will be located in the Charles Perkins Centre for the duration of this project.

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2479