RNA therapeutics for motor neuron disease
The project is based at Macquarie University’s MND Centre and NNPF within the Macquarie Medical School, providing access to world-class infrastructure for both neuroscience and RNA research.
Develop next-generation self-amplifying RNA therapeutics for motor neuron disease, combining cutting-edge RNA technology with preclinical neuroscience at our MND Centre.
Key details
- 20268434
- PhD
- Applications close on 31 October 2026
- Domestic, International
- Medicine and health
- $39,700 p.a.
About the scholarship
Motor neuron disease (MND/ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative condition with no cure. This PhD project will pioneer the use of self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) technology as a next-generation therapeutic approach for MND. Unlike conventional RNA therapies, saRNAs can self-replicate within cells, enabling sustained therapeutic protein expression from minimal doses.
The candidate will:
- design and optimise saRNA constructs
- evaluate their performance in induced neuron and animal models
- use advanced proteomic approaches to assess therapeutic impact.
The successful candidate will be supervised by:
- Associate Professor Albert Lee (MND biology, translational neuroscience)
- Dr Russel Vincent (RNA therapeutics, molecular engineering).
The candidate will join the NSW RNA Research and Training Network (RRTN) cohort, gaining access to networking events, educational programs, and collaboration opportunities across the NSW RNA ecosystem.
Availability
This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake a direct entry three-year PhD program.
Ideal candidates will hold a master degree in:
- molecular biology
- biochemistry
- neuroscience
- a related field.
Experience in cell culture, molecular cloning, or RNA biology is desirable.
Components
The scholarship comprises:
- a tuition fee offset
- a living allowance stipend
- a three-month paid industry internship
- professional development funding.
The value of each stipend scholarship is $39,700 per annum (full time, indexed) for three years.
How to apply
Before submitting your application, submit an expression of interest (EOI) to:
- Albert Lee at albert.lee@mq.edu.au
- Russel Vincent at russel.vincent@mq.edu.au.
Your EOI should detail your background and how your applicable experience may be suitable for the project.