PhD Scholarship Opportunity - Unravelling Cancer Metabolite Recognition by T Cells

Monash • Clayton, NC

5d • Onsite

About The Position

A fully funded PhD scholarship is available in the group of Dr Wael Awad within Prof. Jamie Rossjohn’s laboratory at the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI). This research proposal focuses on providing a holistic understanding of how cancer-associated metabolites orchestrate T cell functions. Utilizing a combination of cutting-edge biochemical, structural, and cellular immunology approaches, the successful candidate will investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying T cell receptor recognition and discrimination of tumour metabolites. This fundamental research aims to pave the way for universal MR1-based anti-cancer immunotherapies. The successful candidate gains hands-on expertise in recombinant protein expression and purification, X-ray crystallography, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), and cellular immunology approaches in a world-class, exceptionally well-funded environment. The candidate will join a world-leading structural immunology research team with a proven track record of publishing in high-impact journals including Science, Nature Immunology, and Science Immunology. The position offers an exceptionally well-funded environment, state-of-the-art facilities, direct mentorship from world leaders, and opportunities to present at national and international conferences.

Requirements

• Fulfil the Monash University minimum requirements for admission to a PhD.
• Background in biochemistry, structural biology, and/or immunology.
• Knowledge of and/or experience in protein biochemistry, cellular biology and/or structural characterization.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying T cell receptor recognition and discrimination of tumour metabolites.

Benefits

• Tax-free stipend, at the current value of ~ $41,100 per annum 2027 full-time rate, as per the Monash Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend
• Exceptionally well-funded environment
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Direct mentorship from world leaders
• Opportunities to present at national and international conferences

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level