Western Sydney University
3 weeks ago
Research Training Program (RTP)
PhD in the Genomics of Mango Fruit Colour and Quality Western Sydney University in Australia
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Funded PhD project. Domestic candidates receive a tax-free stipend of AUD 35,550 per annum for up to 3 years plus Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset. International candidates receive a tax-free stipend of AUD 35,550 per annum for up to 3 years; strong applicants may be eligible for a tuition fee waiver. International candidates must hold Overseas Student Health Care (OSHC) insurance for the duration of study in Australia.
Deadline
Sep 30, 2026
Country
Australia
University
Western Sydney University
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About this position
PhD opportunity in mango genomics, fruit colour, and quality at Western Sydney University
The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) at Western Sydney University is offering one funded PhD scholarship for an ambitious candidate to begin a 3-year PhD program in 2027. The project focuses on the genomics of mango fruit colour and quality, with an emphasis on understanding the mechanisms controlling complex fruit traits and their interactions with the environment at crop level.
The successful candidate will work on gene annotation, gene function characterisation, regulatory mechanisms, genetic variability, and molecular marker development for breeding. The project uses a multidisciplinary toolkit including genomics, molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and data analysis. It is linked to an industry-led initiative funded by Horticulture Innovation and aims to support next-generation orchard systems and improve breeding efficiency for mango and related tree crops.
Funding: Domestic candidates receive a tax-free stipend of AUD 35,550 per year for up to 3 years plus an RTP fee offset. International candidates receive the same stipend for up to 3 years, and strong applicants may be eligible for a tuition fee waiver. International students must also hold OSHC insurance for the duration of study in Australia.
Eligibility highlights: Applicants should have an Honours degree, research Masters, coursework Masters with substantial research, or equivalent. The project is especially suitable for candidates with strong interests in plant molecular biology, functional genomics, biochemistry, physiology, agriculture, horticulture, and molecular marker development for plant breeding. Strong communication skills, creativity, willingness to learn bioinformatics, and proven data analysis experience are requested. International applicants must meet English language requirements.
How to apply: Contact the lead researcher, Assoc Prof Chris Cazzonelli at [email protected], to discuss eligibility and your intention to apply. Then submit an Expression of Interest through the Online Portal and complete the full application after EOI approval. Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Funding details
Funded PhD project. Domestic candidates receive a tax-free stipend of AUD 35,550 per annum for up to 3 years plus Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset. International candidates receive a tax-free stipend of AUD 35,550 per annum for up to 3 years; strong applicants may be eligible for a tuition fee waiver. International candidates must hold Overseas Student Health Care (OSHC) insurance for the duration of study in Australia.
What's required
Applicants should hold qualifications and experience equal to an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, a coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, a Research Master’s degree, or equivalent overseas qualifications. Strong academic performance in plant molecular biology, genomics, biochemistry, physiology, agriculture, and/or horticulture is preferred. Applicants should show strong interest in plant molecular biology, functional genomics, and molecular marker development for tree crop breeding, be willing to learn bioinformatics techniques, have excellent written and verbal communication skills, be creative, and have proven data analysis experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency.
How to apply
Review the eligibility criteria and prepare a document explaining how you satisfy them. Email the lead researcher to discuss your eligibility, the project requirements, and your intention to apply. Submit an Expression of Interest via the Online Portal, then return to submit the completed application after EOI approval.
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