Multimodal biomedical imaging probes: development of advanced polymer nanocomposite devices for oncology

PhD scholarships for working on an ARC Discovery project:
Multimodal biomedical imaging probes: development of advanced polymer nanocomposite devices for oncology

Chief Investigators:
Dr Idriss Blakey, The University of Queensland (UQ)
Dr Kristofer Thurecht, The University of Queensland
A/Prof. Peter Fredericks, Queensland University of Technology
Prof. Cameron Alexander, University of Nottingham

Project summary: Despite the significant progress made in cancer research around the world, millions of people die yearly from this disease. Early detection and treatment gives patients the best chance of long term survival, however current imaging techniques often lack the sensitivity required for early detection. To address this shortcoming, this project aims to develop an integrated multimodal biomedical imaging / therapy platform for the early detection and treatment of cancer. We will develop a fundamental understanding of how polymer architecture and functionality affect performance. This will lead to the next generation of biomedical imaging agents with greater sensitivity and added functional modalities, such as triggered drug delivery.

PhD scholarships: Tax free stipends of $24 000 p.a. for 3 years are available. Successful applicants will also be encouraged to apply for a UQ postgraduate research scholarship, which if successful will be topped up to $32 500 p.a. for 3 years.

A number of PhD projects are available to work towards the next generation multimodal imaging probes: Topics that are available are polymer based MRI contrast agents, thermoresponsive polymers and conjugation of polymers with bioactive molecules. The projects will involve polymer synthesis as well as advanced characterisation using a range of techniques. This project is a collaboration between The University of Qld (Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, Centre for Magnetic Resonance), Qld University of Technology (School of Physical and Chemical Sciences) and University of Nottingham (School of Pharmacy). There will be opportunities for travel to the UK to work in the labs of Prof. Alexander at the U. Nottingham's School of Pharmacy.

Highly motivated applicants background in polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, chemistry, materials science and biotechnology should apply in writing, including CV to:

Dr Idriss Blakey
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
The University of Queensland, 4072, Qld Australia
Email: i.blakey@uq.edu.au
Phone (+61) (07) 3346 3869
Fax (+61) (07) 3365 3833