La Trobe University is inviting expressions of interest for a PhD research project investigating whether sponges and placozoans—animals that do not have neurons—experience sleep-like states.
The research will use behavioural experiments to examine recognised features of sleep and may also involve respirometry, imaging, immunohistochemistry, proteomics and genetics. The findings could provide new insights into the evolution and biological function of sleep.
Table of Content
Summary
Subscribe for Scholarship Alert!
Benefits
- A stipend scholarship for three and a half years, with a value of $36,000 per annum to support your living costs
- A fee-relief scholarship for up to four years
- Opportunities to work with La Trobe's outstanding researchers, and have access to our suite of professional development programs
- Potential for additional allowances for research costs, conference attendance, travel and visits to overseas laboratories - subject to approval
Requirements
To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, applicants must:
In selecting successful applicants, we prioritise applications from candidates who:
- will be enrolled full-time and undertaking their research at a La Trobe University campus
- have completed a Master's by research or other significant body of research, such as an honours research thesis or lead authorship of a peer-reviewed publication, assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 75 or above
Preference will be given to applicants who:
- have a strong academic record and research experience in biology, marine science, animal behaviour, neuroscience or a related field
- ideally have one or more first-author, peer-reviewed publications
- have experience with sponges and/or experience with immunohistochemistry, proteomics and/or genetics
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed and only the preferred applicant will be invited to submit a full application for entry into the PhD and scholarship.
- The successful candidate must be able to start in the first half of 2027 since the funding is tied to the HFSP grant.
Application Documents
- A brief statement outlining your interest in the project and research goals
- Your CV and academic transcripts
- Your research thesis or a summary of your research experience
- Details or copies of relevant publications
- Your citizenship status
Check also:
ANU Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship 2026
University of Canberra Research Scholarships 2026
Application Deadline
May 1, 2027How To Apply
- To express your interest, email John Lesku at [email protected] with Application Documents.
For more information, kindly visit the La Trobe webpage.
