New expert-led consensus to shape the future of MND drug discovery and development research
6th December 2023
PhD scholarships are available for an international or New Zealand candidate to work on a multi-disciplinary project that spans pharmaceutical sciences and neuroscience in New Zealand.
Delivery of drugs via the nose is a promising strategy to bypass the blood-brain barrier. However, direct nose-to-brain delivery of drugs remains a challenge due to the complex geometry of the nose and mucociliary clearance.
This project will involve the formulation and characterisation of mucoadhesive particles which can deliver a protein drug to the brain via intranasal administration. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of formulations will be tested in rats.
The work will be based within the School of Pharmacy at the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (www.pharmacy.otago.ac.nz), and primarily supervised by Dr Shakila Rizwan (www.pharmacy.otago.ac.nz/our-people/academic-staff/shakila-rizwan). The candidate will hold at least a BPharm (Hons) or MPharm or related discipline and will be enthusiastic and passionate about research. Preference will be given to students with an outstanding academic record and a proven track record of research productivity.
To apply: Please contact Dr Rizwan (shakila.rizwan@otago.ac.nz) to explain your interest in this project and how this relates to your previous experience. Please include a copy of your CV, academic transcript, and the names of three referees.
The applicant must be eligible for admission to the PhD programme at the University of Otago, and apply and be awarded a University of Otago doctoral scholarship (www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/otago009259.html#scholarships). A GPA of 8 or greater, first class honours grade and demonstration of proficiency in English are essential. The PhD scholarship provides tuition fees and a tax-free personal allowance of NZD 25,000 pa for three years. International candidates receive the same package as New Zealand residents provided they reside in New Zealand for the duration of the project and study under a New Zealand student visa.
For more information about the project, click here
Dr Rizwan: shakila.rizwan@otago.ac.nz