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

PhD opportunity in Plant Biosecurity and Oriental Fruit Fly Management at James Cook University in Cairns, Australia, through the ARC Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity.

This project focuses on applied ecological and entomological research to understand and manage Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) in the Papua New Guinea Treaty Villages. The research aims to improve food security for local communities while reducing the risk of fruit fly incursions into Torres Strait and mainland Australia.

The PhD will involve literature review, experimental design, and evaluation of management methods such as bait spraying and Male Annihilation Technique (MAT) blocking. The project also allows room for related research directions such as population modelling, social science (community uptake and cultural practices), genetics, and plant host biology.

Students will be based in Cairns and work closely with researchers at James Cook University, the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the South Fly Rangers, and the PNG Biosecurity Authority. The project includes fieldwork in remote PNG locations, including the Treaty Villages and Paho Island, with overnight camping and boat travel.

Funding is strong: the project offers a $40,000 tax-free stipend per year for 3.5 years, plus travel support for training events and generous research project funding. All students in the Training Centre complete at least 12 months of placement with government or industry partners.

Eligibility highlights include experience in plant health, entomology, or a related field, plus the ability to design field experiments, analyse biological data statistically, and communicate findings clearly. The post also notes a preference for an Australian domestic candidate.

Expression of Interest closes 15 July 2026.