Flinders University 2025 Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms

Flinders University invites expressions of interest from exceptional candidates for a fully funded PhD scholarship under an NHMRC Investigator Grant. This opportunity is part of an exciting 5-year project focused on developing a dissolvable antibacterial microneedle patch to target and treat deep wound biofilms or similar chronic wound conditions.

The project will be based at the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), a vibrant and collaborative research hub equipped with world-class facilities. The successful candidate will join a supportive team of leading researchers and benefit from tailored supervision, strong mentoring, and established links with national and international collaborators.

We are looking for enthusiastic and driven individuals with a strong academic background and a keen interest in drug delivery systems, antimicrobial technologies, or biomaterials, and wound infection. This is an ideal opportunity for those who are passionate about translating science into real-world healthcare solutions and who are eager to contribute to the future of wound care.

• Table of Content
• About Flinders University
• Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms
• Aim and Benefits of Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms
• Requirements for Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Flinders University

Flinders University is a public university in Adelaide, South Australia. Founded in 1966, it was named in honour of navigator Matthew Flinders, who explored and surveyed the South Australian coastline in the early 19th century. Flinders is a verdant university[citation needed] and a member of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) Group and ranks in the 10-16 bracket in Australia and 36th in the world of those established less than 50 years. Academically, the university pioneered a cross-disciplinary approach to education, and its faculties of medicine and the humanities are ranked amon... continue reading

Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms

Aim and Benefits of Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms

The scholarship includes:

• A stipend valued at $35,200* per annum (2025 rate) tax free
• The scholarship will be awarded for 3.5 years
• A Research Training Program Fee Offset Scholarship to cover tuition fees for Australian Citizens, NZ Citizens and Permanent Residents.
• International applicants will be considered case by case with outstanding track record preferably those who lives in Australia

Requirements for Development of a Dissolvable Antibacterial Microneedle Patch for Deep Wound Biofilms Qualification

To be eligible for the award of this scholarship a student must: -

• Be an Australian citizen; or New Zealand citizen; or have been granted permanent resident status; or are international citizens who are currently in Australia 
• Meet PhD admission requirements including: have an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), including a research component of at least 6 months’ full-time study achieving Distinction (75%) OR including evidence of equivalent research experience, such as a substantial first-author refereed publication or track record as an investigator on a competitive grant.
• Be available to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in Semester 2, 2025.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Before submitting a formal application, prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the project lead, Dr Hanif Haidari ([email protected]), to discuss their interest and suitability for the project. Dr Haidari may invite you to apply and request a copy of your CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant qualifications, research experience, and motivation for pursuing this PhD opportunity.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview during the week commencing 14 July 2025, with final outcomes to be communicated by 21 July 2025.

For more details, visit Flinders University Scholarship webpage