About the projectDisorders impacting the musculoskeletal system can lead to severe disability and reduced quality of life. To understand disease mechanisms and develop future treatments, we utilise a skeletal microtissue platform derived from pluripotent stem cells. Maturation of stem cell-derived tissues is an ongoing area of research, including 3D culture, electrical stimulation, and controlling metabolic substrates. The aims of this project are to use bioengineering techniques to develop a dynamic culture platform to control mechanical stretch/relaxation to improve tissue maturation. This project will utilise human pluripotent stem cell culture, directed differentiation protocols, bioengineering techniques, soft lithography, 3D printing, high throughput confocal microscopy and molecular biology techniques.About the research environmentThis research project will be conducted within the Stem Cell Biology Department at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI). MCRI is Australia’s largest child health research institute and ranked in the top 3 child health institutes globally for research impact. The Stem Cell Biology Department comprises >200 researchers focused on the development of stem cell-driven therapies for a range of currently incurable disease. Our infrastructure includes state-of-the-art core facilities for induced pluripotent stem cell derivation, gene editing and drug screening.About the CandidateApplicants should have a strong background in one of the following disciplines: biomedical sciences, biomedical engineering or skeletal muscle biology. They are expected to hold an Honours/Masters Degree or work experience in a relevant field.English language proficiency is required for students enrolled through the University of Melbourne. Eligibility and competitiveness for a PhD scholarship is desirable. More information on Graduate research scholarships can be found here –https://gradresearch.unimelb.edu.au/scholarshipsHow to applyApplications should be directed to Richard Mills (richard.mills@mcri.edu.au). To apply, please send:· A detailed CV;· Names and contact information of two referees;· Copies of transcripts;· Cover letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;· Evidence of English proficiency, if applicable