About the research project

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of disorders characterised by chronic lung inflammation and/or fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the most common and devastating forms of ILD and is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage, when patients have a life-expectancy of 2-3 years. It is becoming increasingly apparent that genetic factors contribute significantly to risk of developing IPF and related ILDs, but we are yet to identify the full spectrum of variants and genes involved. Further, we do not understand how defects in the functioning of these genes contribute to disease pathology, how these genes interact with environmental factors, and how they influence response to treatment.

To better understand the role of genetics in disease causation the national Genetic Research in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (GRIPF) Study was established at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research. This study aims to generate a clinically annotated genetic resource comprising families with multiple cases of IPF/ILD as well as a cohort of individuals with a strong family of IPF/ILD and unaffected controls. The GRIPF study is part of a larger national and international initiative seeking to improve outcomes for patients through understanding the genetic basis of ILDs. There is scope for more than one project. Projects may involve the application of genomics methodologies and bioinformatic tools to  facilitate novel gene and variant discovery in families with whole genome sequencing data. Additionally, projects may include laboratory-based techniques such as cell culture and in vitro functional studies designed to assess the impact of candidate variants on protein function.

Primary Supervisor

MEET DR SIONNE LUCAS

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by CRE of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
• a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
• Applications are available to onshore applicants only

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Dr Sionne Lucas to discuss your suitability and the project’s requirements; and
3. In your application:

• Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
• Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.

1. Apply prior to 1 August 2024.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ‘How to apply‘ section at Research degrees.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.