• Exciting PhD with impact for Australian & global agriculture
• Personalised research program within an experienced team
• Work with experts in plant metabolic engineering, protein design & synthetic biology

Are you interested in molecular biology or analytical biochemistry to investigate aspects of direct engineering of bacterial nitrogenase into plants?  CSIRO Agriculture is seeking 2 PhD students interested in an exciting and challenging PhD with impact for Australian and global agriculture.  Enjoy a personalised research program within an experienced research team including experts in plant metabolic engineering, protein design and synthetic biology. If you are eligible for a government postgraduate scholarship such as a Research Training Program (RTP), you will receive a $12000 top up stipend from CSIRO. 

You will use a range of molecular biology approaches in genetically modified bacteria, plants and yeast to investigate questions regarding the expression, assembly and function of nitrogenase and its components within different host organisms. You will also use and develop techniques relating to proteomics, protein-protein interactions, electron transport, metalloprotein biochemistry, gene editing/silencing, and metabolite profiling. The studentship will may offer further opportunities to use high throughput screening technologies and directed evolution as part of their research program.  

Location:      Black Mountain, ACT
Stipend:       Top up scholarship $12,000 per annum plus operating costs
Tenure:         Up to 3 years
Job reference:    50982

To be successful you will need to be eligible for a Research Training Program (RTP) or equivalent and be enrolled in a PhD program at an Australian university.  As a minimum you will have 1st class honours or an MSc in molecular biology, structural biology, biochemistry or similar. You are required to be a permanent resident or Australian/New Zealand citizen.  International candidates with appropriate immigration approvals may also apply.  Hands on experience working in a laboratory, preferably a molecular biology laboratory is needed. Candidates must have have excellent written and oral communication skills in English along with an ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

To view the full position details and selection criteria click here: Position details

About us

At the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), we shape the future. We do this by using science to solve real issues. Our research makes a difference to people, industry and the planet.

About CSIRO Agriculture and Food

Our Agriculture and Food team is helping Australian farmers and industry improve productivity and sustainability across the agriculture sector.

How to Apply:  Please provide enough information relevant to this position to enable the selection panel to determine your suitability, and upload one document containing your CV/resume and cover letter. 

Applications close:  Sunday 14 January 2018 (10:59pm AEDT)