Uncovering novel methods to elucidate protein secretion in yeast

The bioeconomy needs new systems for mass-producing key proteins, like using yeast for designer proteins, despite gaps in our understanding of yeast protein secretion.

This inter-disciplinary project will apply advanced synthetic biology approaches and genomics to elucidate the genetic basis of protein secretion in yeast. State-of-the-art microfluidics and single cell sorting techniques will be undertaken with collaborators.

Key details

Reference number

20246806

For course

PhD

Key dates

Applications close on 30 April 2025

Student type

Domestic

Area of study

Engineering, science

Stipend value
(Direct payment)

$38,500 p.a. (2025 rate)

We are excited to offer a domestic PhD scholarship on the study of yeast protein secretion funded as part of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery program. This work will be located at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic biology (Macquarie University) and provides a supportive, inclusive and rewarding research environment.

This project will explore the genetic underpinning of yeast protein secretion at the single-cell level. This includes developing a mutagenised cell pool using techniques, such as SCRaMbLE, and performing advanced screening approaches to identify yeast super secretors.

Project goals
  • Develop a targeted or untargeted approach to generate a library of yeast mutants. This includes working with strains generated for the Sc2.0 project via the SCRaMbLE methodology.
  • Together with collaborators, develop encapsulation and microfluidic-based approaches to separate and characterise yeast protein secretors at the single-cell level. These will then be subjected to whole-genome sequencing to identify the genetic underpinning of yeast secretion.
Outcomes
  • Potential outcome includes identifying novel fundamental insights into the genetic underpinning of yeast protein secretion, with major potential benefits for the production of biopharmaceutical proteins and industrial enzymes.
  • The knowledge gained from analysing selected strains with desired phenotypes will provide a blueprint for designing and augmenting non-synthetic yeast strains with superior traits.

The PhD project would suit candidates with background in some or all of:

  • microbiology (preferably with yeast)
  • molecular/synthetic biology. For example, designing and working with DNA
  • DNA sequencing and in silico analysis.

Availability

This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake a direct entry three-year PhD.

Components

The scholarship is comprised of:

  • a living allowance stipend
  • a tuition fee offset.

The value of the stipend scholarship is $38,500 per annum (full time, indexed) for three years.

How to apply

Applications must include:

  • a targeted cover letter
  • an up-to-date CV.

A short list of candidates will be interviewed online or in person as part of the selection process.