PhD Position – Nanotechnologies for Tuberculosis Detection and Diagnostics

Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Nanotechnology
St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
1 March 2026
Full Time PhD Scholarship

Job Description

Organization: The University of Queensland (UQ)

Institute: Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB)

Location: St Lucia, Queensland, Australia

Program: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Project Overview

This PhD project aims to revolutionise the diagnosis and characterisation of tuberculosis (TB), particularly drug-resistant TB (DR-TB), by integrating nanoparticle-based pathogen capture with rapid sequencing technologies.

A library of nanobodies will be screened to identify optimal candidates for bioconjugation to engineered nanoparticles, enabling highly specific and sensitive TB capture directly from clinical samples. This approach eliminates time-consuming contaminant removal and preconcentration steps. Chemical probes will also be incorporated to detect phenotypic characteristics of DR-TB, accelerating accurate diagnosis.

The project forms part of a multinational collaboration focused on rapid TB diagnosis in Southeast Asia, providing strong clinical and translational research exposure.

Research Environment

The Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) is ranked among the top 20 globally for life sciences research and offers advanced infrastructure including high-resolution mass spectrometry, state-of-the-art microscopy, flow cytometry, microfluidics, sequencing platforms, and nanoparticle characterisation facilities (SEM, TEM, XRD, DLS, BLI/SPR).

The research will be conducted within the Blaskovich Research Group, which maintains comprehensive microbiological platforms from in vitro MIC assays to in vivo infection models.

Supervision

  • Principal Supervisor: Professor Mark Blaskovich
  • Associate Supervisor: Dr Sanjaya KC

Eligibility & Background

  • Strong academic record in microbiology or related fields
  • Background in microbiology, molecular biology and/or genomics
  • Experience with DNA sequencing and data analysis highly desirable
  • Demonstrated research potential through publications, honours, or awards

Scholarship

Research Project Scholarship includes:

  • Living stipend: AUD $37,500 per annum (tax free, 2026 rate, indexed annually)
  • Full tuition fee coverage

Application Process

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 31 March 2026.

Scholarship Code: TUBERCULOSIS-BLASKOVICH

Applicants must complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section indicating application for an advertised project under the Research Project Scholarship.

For enquiries: [email protected]

Location

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