2008 Postgraduate opportunities

Applications are invited for an exciting opportunity to conduct research into viral diseases of fish in the Murray Darling river system, leading to a PhD in epidemiology and infectious diseases. Specifically, the project will investigate the occurrence of epizootic haematopoietic necrosis virus (EHNV) in native finfish and determine the susceptibility of these species to the virus experimentally.

EHNV first occurred in Australia in the 1980s in redfin perch in Victoria and New South Wales, where it caused explosive disease outbreaks and has been spreading slowly since. The outcomes of the research will inform policy development and conservation management in the Murray Darling basin. Techniques employed will include epidemiology, virology, immunology and pathology. The research will be conducted in modern well equipped laboratories at Camden, with some field work in southern Australia.

The successful applicant will work with academic experts in the Farm Animal and Veterinary Public Health Group and with scientists in NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries).

The scholarship is valued at $25,000 per annum (tax exempt).

Applicants should be Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents or New Zealand citizens. Applicants must have an honours degree in Veterinary Science, Science or equivalent and an interest in microbial diseases and it would be desirable to have some knowledge or experience in fisheries biology.

Further information may be obtained from Professor Richard Whittington, tel 02 9351 1619, e-mail .

Applications should be sent to Professor Whittington at the above address and should include a curriculum vitae, a copy of academic transcript and the names and contact details of at least two referees.

Closing date 31 December 2008.