Title: “Microbial diversity in mosquito vectors of encephalitic flaviviruses and impact on a novel biocontrol”
Application closing date: 30th of May 2025
What you will receive:
You’ll receive a stipend scholarship of $33,637 per annum for a maximum duration of 3.5 years while undertaking a QUT PhD. There is also the possibility of an extension of up to six months if approved for your candidature. This is the full-time, tax-free rate which will index annually.
If you’re an international student, you will also receive a tuition fee sponsorship for your research degree and support for health cover.
As the scholarship recipient, you will work with a team of world leading researchers funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, contributing to the project “Combatting Mosquito-Borne Encephalitic Viruses: New Biocontrol and Risk Prediction Tools”.
Eligibility
You need to meet the entry requirements for a QUT Doctor of Philosophy, including any English language requirements. You must:
- enrol as a full-time, internal student by 1st of October 2025
- have an honours degree (or equivalent) and/or a Master degree in one or more of these or related areas: microbiology, entomology, virology, genomics and/ or bioinformatics
How to apply
To apply for this scholarship, prepare a cover letter, outlining your suitability for this PhD project and explaining your motivations for undertaking a PhD, together with a CV and email these to the project leader, Associate Professor Francesca Frentiu (francesca.frentiu@qut.edu.au) before the closing date.
About the scholarship
This PhD project will investigate spatial and temporal patterns in microbial diversity in vectors of encephalitic flaviviruses such as Japanese encephalitis. As part of this project, the student will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of novel biocontrol tools for the control of medically important mosquitoes in Australia. The project will suit candidates with interests in medical entomology, microbiology, virology, and strong analytical or bioinformatic skills.
The successful student will be based in QUT’s Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, located at QIMR Berghofer in Herston. You will be part of a supportive research environment and a well-connected HDR team. CIIC facilitates opportunities and events for HDR students to present their research with peers, networking opportunities both within QUT and with external organisations, attend guest speaker seminars, in addition to access to QUT HDR support and development programs.