Are you passionate about wildlife health and conservation? We are seeking an enthusiastic Honours or MPhil student to investigate the role of Uromodulin (Tamms-Horsfall Protein – THP) in the kidneys of endangered koalas. THP is a key mucoprotein that protects kidney function in mammals, yet its role in koalas remains unexplored despite their high prevalence of renal disease in comparison to other native mammals.
This project aims to:
- Identify urinary markers distinguishing healthy and diseased koalas.
- Characterize THP gene expression in koala kidneys.
- Detect and quantify THP in renal tissues.
- Correlate urinary THP levels with kidney pathology and clinical findings.
The student will be trained in advanced diagnostic tests including molecular techniques and immunohistochemistry, and also clinical pathology, to conduct their own testing which will provide critical insights into koala renal disease mechanisms. The findings will contribute to the development of improved diagnostic tools for wildlife hospitals, enhancing early detection and treatment strategies.
This project is ideal for students interested in veterinary science, pathology, or conservation medicine. You will gain valuable research experience in molecular biology, histology, and wildlife disease diagnostics while contributing to koala conservation.
For more information or to express your interest, please contact Dr. Viviana Gonzalez-Astudillo at v.gonzalez@uq.edu.au.
