PhD in Plant Biosecurity and Oriental Fruit Fly Management in Papua New Guinea Treaty Villages James Cook University in Australia

New PhD opportunity in plant biosecurity, entomology, and agricultural pest management at the ARC Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity, based at James Cook University in Cairns, Australia, with field and placement work in Papua New Guinea.

The project focuses on managing Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) in the Treaty Villages of PNG. The research aims to evaluate whether fruit fly numbers can be reduced using locally appropriate management methods, with benefits for village food security and biosecurity outcomes for PNG, Torres Strait, and mainland Australia.

The PhD student will review existing control methods such as bait spraying, Male Annihilation Technique (MAT), blocking, traps, toxicants, parasitoids, and entomopathogens, then design and implement an experiment in selected Treaty Villages including Jarai, Mari, Buzi, and Berr. The project may also include population modelling, social science, genetics, and plant host biology depending on the student’s interests and project direction.

Training Centre students will join a cohort of PhD students and postdocs and complete at least 12 months of placement with industry or government partners. The role involves collaboration with the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, PNG Biosecurity Authority, South Fly Rangers, and other partners. Fieldwork will include highly remote locations, overnight camping, and travel by small boat.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have experience in plant health, entomology, or a related field; be able to design and conduct field experiments; analyse biological data statistically; and communicate findings clearly in writing and speaking. The opportunity is aimed at an Australian domestic student or a student from PNG or the Pacific Islands and Territories.

Funding includes a $40,000 tax-free stipend per year for 3.5 years, plus travel support for Training Retreats and Centre Forums and generous research project funding. Expressions of interest are open until 15 July 2026.