A PhD project that will investigate detecting and analysing the growth hormone using proteomics for anti-doping purposes is available in the Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences (CBMS) at Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia. This project underpins an Australian Government grant (Department of Health and Ageing through the Anti-Doping Research Program) to develop a method(s) for detection of exogenous growth hormone and its analogs in athletes. The researcher will utilise the sample preparation, gel electrophoresis, image analysis, antibody array, mass spectrometry and bioinformatics infrastructures available at the Australian Proteome Analysis Facility (APAF) at Macquarie University. Further information on APAF is available at: www.proteome.org.au.

When a drug is injected into the human body, it is almost certain that the proteome pattern of that subject will be changed. Blood samples will be obtained for detection and analysis of naturally occurring hGH, rhGH and GH-marker proteins. The project will identify recombinant hGH in human blood, and identify and validate potential novel and known GH-marker proteins and their rhGH induced variants in blood. The project will also characterise post-translational modifications of growth hormones and GH-marker proteins. As there are currently no standardised methods to detect hGH abuse in athletes, this research will work towards testing a novel approach to defeat sporting drug cheats.

For further information about this project, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Alamgir Khan: email: akhan@proteome.org.au; telephone: +61-2-9850-6204. Applicants should have completed an Australian undergraduate degree with second class division one honours in a relevant discipline (Analytical chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Physiology or a relevant subject) or demonstrate equivalent research qualifications from an overseas university, such as a Masters degree with substantial thesis component. Hands-on experience in proteomics is highly desirable.

Scholarship Opportunities:

University also encourages outstanding applicants who have completed qualifications equivalent to Australian First Class Honours to apply for full-time scholarships. Information on equivalence can be found at: http://www.research.mq.edu.au/students/scholarships/rating_alternative

Scholarship schemes currently available include:

*MQRES scholarships are available year round for domestic and International students. Include an APA-equivalent stipend (see below), allowances for relocation and thesis costs, international tuition fees and overseas health cover for a maximum of 3.5 years tenure.

*2009 Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) scheme for domestic students closes 31 October. Includes a stipend currently AU$20,007 p.a. tax exempt (2008), allowances for relocation and thesis costs, for a maximum of 3.0 years tenure (and a possible 6 month extension).

*2009 Endeavour International Postgraduate Scholarship (E-IPRS) for international students. Includes tuition and overseas health cover costs, for a maximum of 3.0 years tenure (and a possible 6 month extension). The University provides an APA equivalent stipend. Closes 31 August.

Application forms for candidature and scholarship are available from the Higher Degree Research Office, telephone +61-2-9850 7987, or our website: http://www.research.mq.edu.au/students/home

Completed applications should be forwarded to:

The Higher Degree Research Office
Building C5C, Level 3 East
Macquarie University NSW 2109 Australia