The Organisation

AgResearch is a leading Crown Research Institute charged with delivering science and innovation to benefit New Zealand agriculture and its wider economy.  Our internationally recognised scientists are dedicated to this mission and we collaborate with world leading science organisations and universities to achieve exceptional science delivery. We are proud to be unique organisation that is driving prosperity by transforming agriculture to better equip our future generations to come.

The Role

We are seeking an outstanding PhD candidate to undertake research to determine the effects of milk fat globule (MFGM) membrane on brain development and function in early life. MFGM is a 3-layer membrane covering the fat globule, and consists of complex lipids and proteins recognised to be essential for brain development, and to promote bacterial growth. The student will test the hypothesis that human and bovine MFGM differentially affects the production of neuromodulatory molecules by the bowel microbiota, leading to improvement in biomarkers of brain development and function.

About you

The ideal candidates must have:

•  A relevant Masters or Honours degree (e.g. physiology, molecular biology, microbiology, food technology) with a minimum A- grade (or equivalent)

•  Excellent written and oral communication skills (IELTS score of 6.5 required if English is not first language)

•  Strong analytical and problem solving skills

•   Diligence, resilience and enthusiasm.

Previous experience working with animal studies and/or molecular biology laboratory would be advantageous.

Benefits

The three year studentships includes an annual tax-free stipend of NZD30,000 plus tuition fees and consumables. The research will be undertaken within the Food Nutrition & Health team at AgResearch Grasslands in Palmerston North, New Zealand. The project is funded by the Riddet Centre of Research Excellence and the student will be enrolled at Massey University in Palmerston North

• The opportunity to take part in leading edge research.
• Be a part of a successful multidisciplinary research team.
• Develop your career as an independent researcher.

How to apply

The closing date for applications is 30 August 2016. Please apply online via https://careers.sciencenewzealand.org/jobdetails/ajid/FpQV7/PhD-Student-Smart-gut-in-early-life,18488.html  

The intended start date for the projects are 01 November 2016, or as soon as possible after this date. Interested persons can contact Dr Caroline Thum by email caroline.thum@agresearch.co.nz or Assoc Prof Nicole Roy by email nicole.roy@agresearch.co.nz