A fully funded PhD position is available at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB), University of Queensland, Australia, focusing on the development of nanotechnology-enabled rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis (TB), including drug-resistant TB. The project aims to revolutionize TB diagnosis by integrating nanoparticle-based pathogen capture, nanobody bioconjugation strategies, rapid DNA sequencing, and chemical probes for the detection of drug-resistant TB. This innovative approach seeks to accelerate the diagnosis of TB directly from clinical samples, bypassing traditional, time-consuming culturing methods.

The research is part of a multinational collaboration targeting TB diagnosis in Southeast Asia, offering opportunities to work with clinicians and researchers from an international consortium. The project will be hosted in the Blaskovich research group at IMB, which is renowned for its advanced scientific infrastructure, including high-resolution mass spectrometry, state-of-the-art microscopy, and comprehensive microbiological and sequencing facilities. The group specializes in microbiological assays, in vitro and in vivo infection models, flow cytometry, microfluidics, and nanoparticle characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, DLS, and BLI/SPR.

The scholarship covers a tax-free living stipend of $37,500 per year (2026 rate, indexed annually) and full tuition fees. The ideal candidate will have a background in microbiology, molecular biology, genomics, nanotechnology, or sequencing/data analysis. Applicants are assessed on academic record, publication record, honours and awards, and employment history. A working knowledge of general microbiology, molecular biology, and/or genomics is beneficial, and experience with DNA sequencing and data analysis is highly desirable.

To apply, candidates must submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the PhD program by 31 March 2026, including the required scholarship and project details. For further information or to discuss research interests, applicants may contact Professor Mark Blaskovich at [email protected]. This is a high-impact opportunity for students interested in nanoscience, biomedical research, and global health innovation.