Engineering of mesenchymal stromal cell metabolism for reliable cell therapies

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are the most widely trialled cell therapy in history, yet few are approved for chronic inflammatory disease.

One reason is that their anti-inflammatory strength varies unpredictably from batch to batch. A dose that helps one patient may do little for the next.

This project asks whether rewiring the cells' metabolism can make that effect consistent. The work has three parts:

1. Engineering: use CRISPR tools that switch genes on and off, locking human MSCs into defined metabolic states.
2. Characterisation: measure what each state does to the cells, combining metabolic profiling with checks on cell identity and quality.
3. Immune function: test how each state changes the way the cells calm an immune response, using T cell assays and the anti-inflammatory signals the cells release.

You do not need experience in all three. If the project interests you but you are unsure whether your background fits, email me before you apply.

This project is based at UQ's St Lucia campus in the School of Chemical Engineering, working at the interface of cell engineering, metabolism and immunology.

You will have access to a strong suite of platforms across UQ, including primary cell culture and molecular biology facilities.

You will be supervised by a team spanning the disciplines the project draws on, combining cell and metabolic engineering with cell-therapy expertise, and supported by specialists in extracellular vesicles and MSC immunomodulation.

You will be embedded in an active program on engineered cell therapies, with links to Australia's cell and gene therapy sector.

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 primary tissue culture, molecular biology (DNA cloning, qPCR, Western blot), flow citometry, cytokine assays, and/or immunoprofiling would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of biomedical sciences, cell or molecular biology, immunology, biomedical or biochemical engineering, or a closely related discipline and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of CRISPR gene editing, cell metabolism, flow cytometry, or immunological assays is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 9 September, 2026 9 September, 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 Mauro Torres (mauro.torres@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: STROMAL-TORRES
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/engineering-mesenchymal-stromal-cell-metabolism-reliable-cell-therapies

Submit an EOI