Nanotherapeutics for neuronal and retinal protection
An industry-supported graduate research scholarship is available for a candidate to join a highly translational research program focused on the design, synthesis, delivery and validation of nanoparticle-based therapeutics.
An industry-linked MRes/PhD scholarship for a candidate with a strong background in chemistry and nanoparticle synthesis to design, synthesise and validate nanodelivery systems for neuronal and retinal neuroprotection.
Key details
- 20257848
- PhD, MRes + PhD
- Applications close on 1 March 2027
- Domestic, International
- Medicine and health
About the scholarship
The project sits at the interface of nanoparticle science, vision science, neuroprotection and therapeutic development and is embedded within Macquarie University’s Vision Sciences research environment through a formal collaboration with CasBio Therapeutics. This academic-industry partnership provides a strong setting in which fundamental nanoparticle development can be directly connected with the requirements of therapeutic delivery and in vivo validation.
The project will have a strong technical focus on the rational design, synthesis and optimisation of novel nanoparticles and nanodelivery systems for in vivo applications. The successful candidate will investigate how nanoparticle properties can be engineered to achieve efficient, stable and reproducible delivery of therapeutic payloads to neuronal and retinal tissues.
The research will progress systematically through:
- nanoparticle formulation and synthesis
- physicochemical characterisation, optimisation and validation
- assessment of biological compatibility, delivery efficiency and functional performance in relevant experimental systems.
Particular emphasis will be placed on establishing robust relationships between nanoparticle design, delivery characteristics and biological response, with the ultimate aim of developing well-characterised nanodelivery platforms for neuronal and retinal neuroprotection.
The project provides an opportunity to work across the full nanoparticle development pathway, from design and synthesis to characterisation, optimisation, biological validation and in vivo delivery within a collaborative academic-industry environment.
The successful candidate will contribute to the development of next generation nanodelivery approaches while gaining multidisciplinary experience spanning:
- nanoparticle chemistry
- therapeutic delivery
- molecular and cellular validation
- experimental neuroprotection.
Availability
This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake either:
- a direct entry one-year MRes program
- a direct entry three-year PhD program
- a four-year combined MRes and PhD program.
Applicants should have a strong academic and research background in:
- chemistry
- materials chemistry
- nanotechnology
- nanomedicine
- a closely related discipline.
Hands-on experience in nanoparticle synthesis and characterisation/validation is highly desirable and will be an important consideration.
Experience in nanodelivery or the development of nanoparticles for biological or in vivo applications would be advantageous.
Components
The scholarship comprises:
- a tuition fee offset
- a living allowance stipend.
The value of each stipend scholarship is $39,700 per annum (full time, indexed) for up to four years.
How to apply
Before submitting your application, submit an expression of interest (EOI) to Associate Professor Vivek Gupta at vivek.gupta@mq.edu.au.
The EOI should include:
- a curriculum vitae, including research experience and publications, where applicable
- academic transcripts
- the names and contact details of two academic referees.