Developing a 3D nasal model for targeted drug delivery testing

4 months ago

Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

Developing a 3D nasal model for targeted drug delivery testing

If you are interested in new approaches to targeted drug delivery, specifically via the nasal route, with funding for travel and consumables, this opportunity is not to be sneezed at

The nose is a fascinating organ that has a unique connection to the brain and lungs. The blood-brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier are effective brain barriers against pathogens and many toxin compounds, but this also means that drugs used to treat central nervous systems (CNS) diseases such as dementia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, are unable to reach the brain effectively when treated via oral and intravenous administration.  

A unique opportunity to circumvent these barriers is presented in the anatomical link existing between the olfactory nerves in the nasal cavity within the olfactory epithelium and the CNS.

However, there are several barriers to delivering drugs to the brain through the intranasal route, including the highly resistant and narrow vestibule region of the nasal cavity, the biological barriers of the semi-permeable nasal epithelium, enzymatic degradation and the rapid mucociliary clearance.

This proposed PhD project aims to address this problem by developing a physiologically relevant integrated nasal model using state of the art 3D bioprinting that could accurately mimic the physiological conditions and inhalation processes in the nasal cavity.

This novel 3D model will be used to explore and further understanding the nasal physiology and how this will guide nasal drug delivery formulations and devices optimisation with correlative performance with in vivo outcomes in a predictive manner.

Scholarship details

The scholarship is available to candidates eligible to undertake a four-year MRes Year 2 + PhD program

The program includes:

  • admission to a university PhD program
  • supervision by the participating university, and a major industry partner
  • a four-year scholarship package totalling $35,000 per annum (2024 rate)
  • an additional top-up scholarship ($7,000 per annum) is also available from the Woolcock’s Centre for Chronic Diseases of Ageing
  • an industry engagement component with the industry partner.

Successful students are subject to the policies, procedures, and guidelines of the participating university.

Students will receive a PhD or MRes Year 2 + PhD bundle (1 + 3 years) on completion.

How to apply

Applicants are required to submit an expression of interest (EOI) to: Macquarie supervisor Hui Xin Ong huixin.ong@mq.edu.au

Scholarship process

  • The EOI is assessed by the supervisory team and shortlisted applicants are interviewed.
  • The supervisory team nominates a preferred applicant.
  • The nominated applicant will be instructed to apply.
  • The application is then assessed by the host university against PhD admission criteria.
  • The university will issue a letter of offer for the program if all conditions have been satisfied.

If you are interested in applying for this PhD opportunity and would like more information, please contact Dr Hui Xin Ong at huixin.ong@mq.edu.au

Current PhD Opportunities

  • Developing 3D printed lung models
  • Developing a 3D nasal model for targeted drug delivery testing

  • Developing a 3D Nasal Model for Targeted Drug Delivery

    2 days ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    PhD Opportunity in Nasal Drug DeliveryThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our team in developing a 3D nasal model for targeted drug delivery testing.BackgroundThe nasal route is a promising approach for delivering drugs to the central nervous system (CNS), but it is challenging due to the highly...

  • Developing a 3D Nasal Model for Targeted Drug Delivery

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly motivated and skilled PhD researcher to join our team at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research. The successful candidate will work on developing a physiologically relevant integrated nasal model using state-of-the-art 3D bioprinting techniques.Key Responsibilities:Design and develop a 3D nasal model that accurately...

  • 3D Nasal Model Development for Drug Delivery Research

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    3D Nasal Model Development for Targeted Drug DeliveryThis position offers a unique opportunity for those interested in pioneering methods for targeted drug delivery, particularly through the nasal pathway. The project is well-funded, covering travel and necessary materials.The nasal cavity is an intriguing structure, closely linked to both the brain and...

  • Nasal Model Development for Targeted Drug Delivery

    1 week ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Research Opportunity: Developing a 3D Nasal Model for Targeted Drug DeliveryThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is seeking a highly motivated and skilled researcher to develop a physiologically relevant integrated nasal model using state-of-the-art 3D bioprinting. This project aims to address the challenges of delivering drugs to the brain through the...

  • 3D Nasal Model Development for Drug Delivery Research

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    3D Nasal Model Development for Targeted Drug DeliveryThis project focuses on pioneering methodologies for targeted drug delivery through the nasal pathway, presenting a unique opportunity for those interested in innovative approaches in the field.The nasal cavity serves as a critical interface between the brain and lungs, with significant implications for...

  • 3D Nasal Model Development for Drug Delivery Research

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    3D Nasal Model Development for Targeted Drug DeliveryThis position focuses on pioneering methods for targeted drug delivery through the nasal pathway, offering funding for travel and essential materials.The nasal cavity is a remarkable structure with a direct link to both the brain and lungs. While the blood-brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid...

  • Developing 3D printed lung models

    4 months ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Developing 3D printed lung modelsInhaled therapies have been a cornerstone in the treatment of patients living with chronic respiratory diseases. While there has been significant progress and research activity within the field of inhalation therapy, only a handful of new inhaled products have successfully progressed to market. The failure to translate...

  • 3D Printed Lung Model Developer

    2 days ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Developing 3D Printed Lung ModelsWe are seeking a highly skilled researcher to join our team at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research and contribute to the development of an artificial respiratory model that integrates airway replicas with 3D bioprinting.BackgroundInhaled therapies have been a cornerstone in the treatment of patients living with chronic...

  • Developing 3D Printed Lung Models for Respiratory Research

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Job Title: Developing 3D Printed Lung ModelsAbout the Role:We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our team at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research to develop 3D printed lung models for respiratory research. The successful candidate will work closely with our experienced researchers to design, develop, and validate an artificial...

  • Principal Investigator in Sleep Science

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Lead Sleep Research ScientistAbout UsThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a distinguished not-for-profit research organization, recognized globally for its contributions to clinical diagnosis and treatment in the fields of respiratory and sleep health. Our dedicated team of researchers, clinicians, and support staff is committed to enhancing the...

  • Lead Sleep Research Scientist

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Lead Sleep Research ScientistAbout UsThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a distinguished not-for-profit research organization recognized globally for its contributions to clinical diagnosis and treatment. Our dedicated team of researchers, clinicians, and support staff is focused on enhancing the respiratory and sleep health of Australians. The...

  • Senior Researcher in Sleep Science

    2 weeks ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Senior Sleep Scientist – ResearchAbout UsThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a distinguished not-for-profit research organization recognized globally for its contributions to clinical diagnosis and treatment. Our exceptional team of researchers, clinicians, and support personnel is dedicated to enhancing the respiratory and sleep health of...

  • Senior Sleep Scientist – Research

    2 months ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    Senior Sleep Scientist – ResearchAbout usThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a not-for-profit research institute and an internationally recognised leader in research, clinical diagnosis and treatment. With a world-class team and network of researchers, clinicians and support staff we are committed to improving the respiratory and sleep health of...

  • HR Manager

    1 week ago

    Glebe, Australia Woolcock Institute of Medical Research Full time

    HR ManagerAbout usThe Woolcock Institute of Medical Research is a not-for-profit research institute and a globally recognised leader in respiratory and sleep health. With a world-class team and network of researchers, clinicians and support staff we are committed to improving the respiratory and sleep health of Australians. The Woolcock Institute of Medical...

  • Tender Development Specialist

    4 months ago

    Glebe, Australia The Benevolent Society Full time

    **Full time position based in Glebe.**: - **$105k - $122k TRP**: - **Flexible Friendly organisation, hybrid work options available** The Benevolent Society’s vision is to build a just society where all Australians can live their best life. For more than 200 years we have supported people at the margins of society: children, young people, and their...

  • IT Development Team Leader

    3 months ago

    Glebe, Australia The Benevolent Society Full time

    **Dynamic, full-time position based at our National Office in Glebe**: - ** Attractive remuneration package will be negotiated!**: - ** Flexible, friendly organisation, WFH & Hybrid work options available!**: - ** Use your development and team-leading skills to make a difference in people’s lives** The Benevolent Society’s vision is to build a just...

  • Learning & Development Administrator

    4 months ago

    Glebe, Australia The Benevolent Society Full time

    **3 month contract position based in Sydney or Brisbane**: - **Flexible Friendly organisation**: - ** $35.97 per hour plus superannuation** We are Australia’s first charity, providing a range of services across New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. We are a not-for-profit and non-religious organisation that has assisted people, families and...

  • Local Delivery Driver

    3 months ago

    Glebe, Australia Reece Group Full time

    Local Delivery Driver - Glebe **About Reece Plumbing** We make connections. Plumbers are at the heart of Reece. Reece Plumbing is built on supporting the trade, providing quality products and useful services that supports the essential work that we do. **About the role** In this role you will be responsible for picking and packing orders and doing local...

  • Delivery Driver

    2 months ago

    Glebe, Australia Reece Group Full time

    Delivery Driver / Trade Counter - GlebeAbout Reece PlumbingWe make connections.Plumbers are at the heart of Reece. Reece Plumbing is built on supporting the trade, providing quality products and useful services that supports the essential work that we do.About the roleWork with trades and businesses as a retail sales assistant. Deliver customer service...

  • Trade Counter and Delivery Drivers

    1 week ago

    Glebe, Australia Reece Group Full time

    Trade Counter and Delivery Drivers - Sydney CBD and Eastern Suburbs **About Reece Plumbing** We are Australia's leading supplier of plumbing and bathroom products with over 10,000 people located in 900+ branches globally. For over 100 years, we’ve supported the trade with top-quality products and expert advice, championing the vital work plumbers do every...