Bipolar genetics: Population-scale brain organoids for bipolar disorder and drug response

Although 70-90% of the chance of developing bipolar disorder is inherited, characterising the molecular mechanisms driving disease development and response to therapies has been challenging.

This project will leverage induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mini brain organoids exposed to different bipolar therapies to identify genetic variations that alter therapeutic response.

This PhD project includes working with the Neavin stem cell wet lab team to design and carry out large-scale stem cell experiments before capturing with single-cell technologies and analysis of the single-cell data.

As a result, you will gain critical cross-training in wet lab techniques and computational analyses making you highly sought after for future positions. Being located in the Centre for Population and Disease Genomics will provide a rigorous statistical environment to support additional learning and skills development.

You will be embedded in the exceptional research environment at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience at The University of Queensland.

The Context-dependent Genetics Lab led by Dr Drew Neavin provides a rich, supportive lab ensuring effective mentorship and training.

You will receive training in stem cell culture, brain organoid differentiations, high content imaging, molecular biology, and computational analyses, providing a strong foundation for future careers across research and industry.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of stem cell culture and neural differentiations would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of stem cell modelling and neuropsychiatric disease and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of CRISPR, molecular phenotyping, immunohistochemistry, and/or microscopy is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 6 November, 2026 6 November, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Drew Neavin (d.neavin@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: BIPOLAR-PALPANT
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/bipolar-genetics-population-scale-brain-organoids-bipolar-disorder-and-drug-response

Submit an EOI