The Therapeutic Targeting Research Group at the University of Newcastle is offering a fully funded PhD scholarship for a student passionate about translational research in veterinary nanomedicine, specifically targeting wildlife conservation. This unique opportunity centers on developing innovative pharmaceutical treatments for sarcoptic mange in wombats, a devastating parasitic disease caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites. The disease is responsible for significant declines in wombat populations across Australia, with mortality rates reaching up to 94% in some regions. Without effective intervention, infected wombats endure severe suffering and rapid population loss.

The successful PhD candidate will join a multidisciplinary team led by Associate Professor Susan Hua, in collaboration with Dr Hayley Stannard and Associate Professor Joanne Connolly from Charles Sturt University. The project is funded by an ARC Discovery Project Grant and will provide world-class training in the emerging field of veterinary nanomedicine for wildlife conservation. Research activities will include laboratory-based in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments, culminating in a veterinary clinical trial in wombats. The aim is to develop improved antiparasitic drug formulations that can be administered without the need to handle or capture the animals, leveraging cutting-edge biological and pharmaceutical techniques to optimize drug delivery and efficacy.

The scholarship offers a generous living allowance of $38,938 per annum (2026 rate), indexed annually, and covers tuition fees for 3.5 years. An additional relocation allowance of up to $1,500 is available. The project is expected to be undertaken full-time and onsite in Newcastle, commencing in January or February 2026. Applicants must meet the University of Newcastle's minimum eligibility criteria for PhD admission, typically including a relevant undergraduate or honours degree and demonstrated research capability. Domestic students are eligible to apply.

To apply, interested candidates should email [email protected] with scanned copies of their academic transcripts, CV, and a statement outlining their research interests, capabilities, and motivation for joining the project. The application deadline is 5pm on 12 January 2026. For further details, visit the University of Newcastle's scholarship page.

This project offers a rare chance to contribute to urgent animal welfare efforts and gain expertise in veterinary nanomedicine, pharmaceutical sciences, and wildlife conservation. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic research environment, working alongside leading experts to address a critical challenge facing Australia's native wildlife.