Macquarie University PhD Scholarship in AAV Gene Modulation for Neural and Retinal Protection 2027

Macquarie University, in collaboration with CasBio Therapeutics, is offering an industry-supported research scholarship for candidates interested in developing advanced gene-delivery technologies to protect neuronal and retinal cells.

The research focuses on designing and optimising adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to deliver targeted genetic modifications to brain and retinal cells. The successful candidate will work on vector construction, molecular cloning, AAV production, gene delivery and functional testing to understand how these technologies can improve neuronal survival and retinal function. The project may also incorporate CRISPR-Cas gene-modulation techniques.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineMarch 1, 2027
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorMacquarie University
• City to studyNew South Wales
• School to studyMacquarie University
• Course to studyHealth and Medicine
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

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.

Requirements

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:

• demonstrated experience in AAV vector design, development or delivery
• a strong academic and research background in:
  • molecular biology
  • gene therapy
  • biotechnology
  • biochemistry
  • neuroscience
  • biomedical sciences
  • a closely related discipline.

Hands-on experience would be highly regarded in areas such as:

• molecular cloning and vector construction
• AAV production and characterisation
• transduction optimisation
• in vivo AAV delivery.

It would be advantageous to have experience with:

• CRISPR-Cas gene modulation
• cell culture
• gene and protein expression analysis
• imaging
• in vivo experimental models.

Application Documents

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.

Check also:
ANU Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship 2026
University of Canberra Research Scholarships 2026

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Before submitting your application, submit an expression of interest (EOI) to Associate Professor Vivek Gupta at [email protected].

For more information, kindly visit the Macquarie webpage.