AddressAbout us
The STOP-MS trial is an investigator driven phase III, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS) trial of spironolactone and famciclovir in the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis to prevent disability progression.
- The STOP-MS Trial will be coordinated by Professor Simon Broadley through the Clinical Trial Unit and the School of Medicine and Dentistry.
- This project will be based at the Gold Coast Campus of Griffith University and also at the QIMR/Berghofer Institute in Brisbane.
We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to undertake analyses of EBV markers in the STOP-MS trial of anti-EBV therapies for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
The primary focus of this role is to assess the effect of anti-EBV therapies on markers of EBV activity (EBNA1 antibody levels and salivary viral shedding) in a cohort of participants in the national, MRFF funded STOP-MS trial. This project includes assisting in the collection of relevant data and samples from participants in the trial, undertaking laboratory analyses (setting up assays, antibody detection and quantification, using PCR techniques to detect EBV DNA in saliva).
The STOP-MS trial is being led by Professor Simon Broadley and this project will be based at Gold Coast. Success in this role requires collaboration with clinical neurologists across Australia and working with and potentially being based for some periods of time in the laboratory of Professor Corey Smith at the QIMR/Berghofer Institute in Brisbane.
QualificationsThe selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will be able to conduct a literature review, collect data and samples within the context of a clinical trial, undertake laboratory experiments (antibody and DNA detection), analyse data and write scientific papers. You will have evidence of a passion for laboratory science, with a strong desire to undertake research in multiple sclerosis.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
Experince is the following areas are considered desirable
- Experience of clinical research
- Experience of laboratory work or research
- Experience of study design and/or data analysis
- Prior publications or written research outputs
- Experience of collaboration
International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:
- A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
- A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
- A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19
About the scholarship
The 2024 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $33,480 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
EoI process
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to **************@griffith.edu.au containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section
- A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template
- Names of two referees
The closing date for expressions of interest is: 5pm Wednesday 29 May 2024
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
What Griffith offers
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
Further information
For project related enquiries please contact:
Professor Simon Broadley
Phone: (07) 567 80***
Email: **************@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Email: ***************@griffith.edu.au
