*2 PhD opportunities to study virulence of chytridiomycosis at James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia*
Chytridiomycosis has caused amphibian declines and extinctions globally as it has spread through naïve populations. It is now endemic in much of its suitable range in Australia where it still causes high mortality rates and threatens amphibian biodiversity. We have funds to investigate mechanisms of virulence and how virulence of *Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis *(Bd) is evolving as it adapts to new habitats. One project is focussed on how Bd causes disease and will involve bioassays, toxin identification and possibly gene knockouts. The second project involves comparing Australian Bd strains to assess growth characteristics and virulence. Both projects may involve frog transmission experiments. The students will be able to pursue areas of interest within this framework. The candidates will be part of the enthusiastic and supportive One Health Research Group at JCU, see <http://www.jcu.edu.au/phtmrs/abc/JCU_107907.html> http://www.jcu.edu.au/cphmvs/public-health-tropical-medicine/JCU_107907.html and Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/onehealthresearchgroup/info. <https://www.facebook.com/onehealthresearchgroup/info> The projects are multidisciplinary and involve collaborators such as Queensland Institute of Medical Research in Brisbane. The outcomes of the projects will to lead to the improved conservation of amphibian biodiversity and may contribute to theories on host/pathogen dynamics. The selected applicants would need to apply for an APA or international PhD scholarship (due31 Aug). Please see http://www.jcu.edu.au/grs/scholarships/index.htm Ideal PhD candidates will have: 1. 1 st class honours, Masters of Science by research or equivalent research credentials in a relevant discipline such as biology or veterinary science majoring in microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or pathology. 2. Demonstrated publication record in high impact journals 4. Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills. Please send CV, cover letter and 2 reference letters to [email protected] and [email protected].
