PhD Scholarships in Neuroecology, University of Western Australia

July 13, 2010

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Two (2) PhD scholarships are available at the University of Western Australia in the laboratory of the newly-appointed Western Australian Premier’s Fellow, ProfessorShaun P. Collin. The laboratory comprises an active group of neurobiologists with interests in the neural basis of behaviour in vertebrates and invertebrates. The research of the group lies within the field of neuroecology, with a focus on the processing of environmental signals by both the peripheral and central nervous systems of aquatic and terrestrial organisms.

For every species, the ability to detect light and other physical parameters is crucial for setting circadian rhythms, avoiding predation, finding food and reproductive success. Innovative techniques such as molecular genetics, microspectrophotometry, bioimaging, electrophysiology and anatomy are used to trace the evolution of light detection and image formation and to explore the impacts of light on biodiversity, sustainability and environmental health. In addition to both basic and applied approaches, studies have now been extended to include other sensory modalities such as the detection of chemosensory signals, electric fields, water borne sound and hydrodynamic disturbances.

The research builds on existing strengths in eco-physiology, neuroscience and marine science at the University of Western Australia and its collaborative partners. Although there will be some scope in the choice of project(s), we are specifically interested in students with previous experience and interest in the areas of electrophysiology (intra-and/or extracellular recording, patch clamping, electroretinography, electroolfactography) and/or molecular biology (isolation and cloning, gene expression, quantitative RT-PCR, in situ hybridization).

Two other senior scientists will also be closely involved in these projects:

• Professor David M. Hunt (david.hunt@uwa.edu.au)

• Associate Professor Nathan Hart (nathan.hart@uwa.edu.au)

Potential projects include but are not restricted to:

• Eye evolution: visual design and function in early vertebrates

• The evolution of bright and dim light vision

• Spectral tuning and evolution of visual and non-visual photopigments

• Adaptations to dim light environments: photokinetics of phototransduction

• Colour vision and the neural processing of colour information

• Chemoreception and vision in teleost fishes: implications for aquaculture

• The evolution of the pineal organ

Eligibility:

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a first class honours degree (orequivalent) in biology, neuroscience, zoology, anatomy, marine biology or related disciplines.

Previous experience in electrophysiology and/or molecular biology would be an advantage but is not essential.

Applications:

All applicants Informal expressions of interest can be directed initially to Professor Shaun P. Collin (shaun.collin@uwa.edu.au).

Written applications should take the following format:

• Covering statement outlining your suitability, motivation for being considered and past experience

• A brief statement of research interests

• Academic Curriculum Vitae including transcripts of results

• Two academic references

Applications – domestic students

Local domestic applicants wishing to commence in Semester 2 2010 should submit a written application (as above) and, if successful, will be required to complete the formal online iAthena application for scholarships and candidature for the 2010.

Australian Postgraduate Award Mid-Year Round at UWA:http://www.scholarships.uwa.edu.au/home/postgrad/general/apa_midyear

Closing date for local domestic applicants:. Friday 16th July 2010

Applications – international students:

International students should submit a written application (as above) and, ifsuccessful, will be required to apply separately for an IPRS/SIRF international fee scholarship: http://www.scholarships.uwa.edu.au/home/postgrad/international/sirf_completion

Closing date for international applicants: Friday 13th August 2010

Professor Shaun P. Collin

WA Premier’s Research Fellow

School of Animal Biology (M317)

The University of Western Australia

Crawley 6009

Western Australia

Australia

Phone: +61 (8) 6488 2632

Fax: +61 (8) 6488 7527

Email: shaun.collin@uwa.edu.au

For further details: