Description
We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate to investigate the role of the LY49B gene in early embryo loss in Thoroughbred horses. This AgriFutures-funded project addresses a major challenge for the Australian breeding industry: unexplained early pregnancy failures that may be linked to a highly prevalent recessive genetic variant.
The project will focus on two integrated aims:
- Profiling the LY49B gene in the Australian Thoroughbred population through large-scale genomic analysis.
- Assessing the biological impact of LY49B on embryo development and embryo–maternal communication, using advanced reproductive biology techniques such as oocyte collection, ICSI, and embryo–endometrial organoid co-culture.
The student will be enrolled at the University of Newcastle under the primary supervision of A/Prof Zamira Gibb and will spend significant time at the University of Sydney under the supervision of Dr Brandon Velie for advanced training in equine genomics.
Requirements
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in animal, veterinary, or biological sciences (or a related field), plus Honours or Masters qualifications in a relevant discipline. Experience with both reproduction and genomics is desirable, as is a background in bioinformatics. Substantial hands-on experience with horses and the equine industry is essential - the applicant must be confident in handling stallions, mares, and young horses, and understand the limitations of the industry. The successful applicant will also need to have a valid driver’s licence, and access to a car (or an intention to purchase one on arrival) is highly desirable.
