This project will investigate fundamental mechanisms controlling genome reprogramming during sperm development. In most cells, DNA is packaged by histone proteins, but during spermatogenesis these must be extensively reorganised to enable genome compaction and successful inheritance. While key structural transitions are known, how RNA regulation contributes to this process remains poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that coordinated changes in RNA metabolism are critical for enabling chromatin remodelling and maintaining genome integrity. This project will explore how RNA processing and turnover are integrated with chromatin dynamics during this specialised developmental transition. Using a combination of molecular, structural, and cellular approaches, we will investigate the interplay between RNA regulation and genome organisation. The project will focus on identifying regulatory principles and key molecular interactions that underpin these processes, without being restricted to a single pathway. Functional studies will assess how perturbation of RNA regulatory processes influences genome stability and developmental outcomes. Overall, this research will define new conceptual links between RNA biology and chromatin organisation, providing fundamental insights into genome packaging, inheritance, and reproductive biology.
This project will uncover a previously unknown mechanism controlling RNA turnover during genome reprogramming, addressing a major gap in our understanding of fertility and inheritance. By defining how histone RNA is regulated during sperm development, the work has potential to inform new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for male infertility. More broadly, the findings will advance RNA biology by revealing how RNA decay is coordinated with chromatin structure. This will position Australia at the forefront of RNA research and strengthen capability in molecular biology, reproductive health, and genome regulation.
Visit the NSW-RTTN site for more details.
Domestic students with a background in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, or RNA biology, particularly those interested in gene regulation, chromatin biology, or reproductive biology.
The successful applicant must be accepted as full-time into a PhD program at Charles Sturt University.
Stipend: This scholarship is valued at $37,260 pa (2026 rate) for 3 years full-time study, payable in fortnightly instalments.
NB. The stipend amount increases each calendar year.
Tuition Fees: Fee exemption for a period equivalent to 3.5 years (7 sessions) for PhD at full-time study.
Operating Funds: Scholarship candidates will be provided with funds valued at $6,300 per annum (high cost HDR course) or $2,500 per annum (low cost HDR course) for 3 years full-time study to support costs associated with a candidate's research.
This scholarship is tenable for 3.5 years (3.5 years FTE tuition fee coverage and 3 years FTE for stipend and operating funds allowances).
An extension of up to six months may be granted where the candidate is making satisfactory progress and the grounds for the extension relate to the study and are beyond the control of the candidate.
The successful candidate is entitled to 20 paid annual leave working days per year and 10 paid sick leave days per year and may be eligible for up to 20 weeks of paid primary carer parental leave.
Applicants will be asked to apply for enrolment and the scholarship as follows:
Prospective Higher Degree by Research candidates can apply for the NSW-RRTN RNA regulation of histone removal during genome reprogramming Scholarship when completing their Charles Sturt course admission application. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select Yes > Full-time AGRTP > Other > Enter Developing RNA therapeutics to target host pathways key to viral infection Scholarship. Apply now
Applications will remain open until a successful candidate has been selected.
Prof Jade Forwood, jforwood@csu.edu.au
Dr Crystall Swarbrick, cswarbrick@csu.edu.au
