The CSIRO/ACDP – CSU PhD Scholarships provide enhanced opportunities in science for outstanding PhD candidates. The scholarship program assists one PhD candidate each year for the duration of the project. Successful candidates will work with an experienced team of researchers from the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness and CSU and will have the opportunity to conduct research at both institutions.
One potential research project is available.
While the role of vectors in the biological transmission of pathogens is well-characterized, the mechanical transmission of mosquito pathogens remains poorly understood. This project aims to address key gaps in our understanding of the potential vector based mechanical transmission of the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans (the causative agent of Buruli ulcer) and other mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue virus and Japanese encephalitis virus.
This PhD opportunity involves accessing ACDP's high-containment area and utilising entomology techniques alongside traditional molecular and virology methods. By adopting a One Health approach, this project will enhance our understanding of these pathogens, leading to more targeted diagnostics, treatment, and prevention strategies.
To be eligible to receive the scholarship applicants must be:
The scholarship provides the following benefits:
Stipend: This scholarship is valued at $45,000 per annum payable in fortnightly instalments.
Tuition fees: Fee exemption for a period equivalent to:
Domestic candidates - four years (eight sessions) for PhD at full-time study.
International candidates - four years (eight sessions) for PhD at full-time study.
Operating funds: Scholarship candidates are allocated an allowance of $12,000 pa to assist with the reimbursement of costs associated with a candidate’s research
The scholarship is tenable for four years for Research Doctorate studies (4 years FTE tuition fee coverage (3 years for international candidates) and 3 years FTE for stipend and operating funds allowances) subject to satisfactory progress.
An extension of up to six months may be granted (stipend and operating funds components only), where the candidate is making satisfactory progress and the grounds for the extension relate to the study and are beyond the control of the candidate.
Scholarship candidates are entitled to 20 paid annual leave working days per year and 10 paid sick leave days per year, however are not eligible for paid primary parental care leave or additional personal leave.
Applicants will need to apply for enrolment.
Prospective Higher Degree by Research candidates can apply for the CSIRO/ACDP – CSU Joint PhD Program Scholarship when completing their Charles Sturt course admission application. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select 'Yes'; 'Full-time AGRTP' and 'Other'. Under 'Other' enter CSIRO/ACDP – CSU Joint PhD Program.
In addition to the documentation required as part of the AGRTP Scholarship application, applicants must also submit a brief statement of interest (250 words or less).
This statement should provide a short account of why you want to undertake graduate research at Charles Sturt University.
This may include, but is not limited to: personal or career goals, course expectations, and previous work, study or life experiences).
The statement should also demonstrate why you are the best candidate for conducting a PhD as part of this project.
Applications will remain open until successful candidates have been selected.
Marta Hernandez-Jover: mhernandez-jover@csu.edu.au
Jade Forwood: jforwood@csu.edu.au