UROP Alumni Group

Those of you who are considering PhD study are likely familiar with the APA (Australian Postgraduate Award) and university-sponsored scholarships, such as the MRS (Melbourne Research Scholarship). But you might not be familiar with the huge array of other scholarships out there, offered by research funding agencies, charitable foundations and industry. The JASON database is a very useful resource for finding these scholarships. It can be found here.

Here is a fantastic short-term RA position at the Bionic Ear Institute.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an exciting class of new materials with interesting properties and a nanoscale. The Bionic Ear Institute is currently involved in a study to investigate CNT biocompatibility in a chronic and static invivo setting. This study, the first of its kind, will address several key concerns and lead to a better understanding of the impact of CNTs on living tissue.

The Institute is now seeking a fulltime Research Assistant to assist Dr David Nayagam on this challenging project until the end of September 2009.

The successful candidate will require a BSc, a background in general wet lab duties and immunohistochemistry, with experience in data analysis and preparation of reports. Previous experience or a willingness to work with animals is essential. Pathology/histology, microscopy/imaging experience would be an advantage as well as some previous experience with budgeting, ordering and record keeping.

Please forward your application outlining your qualifications and experience to

hr-applications@bionicear.org.

Further enquiries may be directed to Susanne Clarke, HR Manager, 9288 3515 or Linda Peterson, Executive Officer 9667 7514.

Applications close: 11 May 2009

Dave is a great guy, so I’m positive the successful applicant will have a terrific experience.

If you completed the UROP survey before the 16th of January, you were in the running for an iTunes voucher, the winners of which have now been contacted. Despite the incentives, the overall number of responses was quite low. Please consider taking a few minutes to complete the survey — it’s very important for ensuring the continuing success of the program.

Every year UROP conduct a survey to figure out where past participants end up (be it Honours , graduate medicine, a PhD, or, horror of horrors, a job). This information is crucial for the ongoing success of the program. It helps ensure the program is tailored to the needs of students, and I’m sure goes a long way in convincing the government that the program is well worth funding. Click here to participate.

For those looking to participate in the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, the next application round will open in April.

Those considering a PhD at The University of Melbourne next year ought to check out the Melbourne Scholarships Office for information on the various forms of support available, including the APA, MRS, and numerous prestigious and industry-supported scholarships. A brochure is available here. Applications for most scholarships close on October 31st.

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