Flinders University ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship 2024

This project will be in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Group and will focus on water quality factors and their influence on materials and biofilm formation in the marine environment.

ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation – Delivering innovative biofilm solutions

We are the leading Australian research and training centre tackling biofilm-related challenges.

The ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation, led by Flinders University is a 5 year, $7.8m research and training program, bringing together 5 universities, 10 industry partners and key industry and regulatory bodies to deliver innovative research and biofilm solutions to tackle one of the biggest issues for the maritime and water industries. The Centre is offering scholarship opportunities across 3 Australian universities (Flinders University, Swinburne University and the University of Tasmania) over the 5 year period.

Biofilms grow on all surfaces and environments, from catheters to drinking water pipes and ships. They are complex organisations of cells that grow on both living and inert surfaces and are both viscous and elastic in nature. They can be made up of a single species or comprise several species of different types of microorganisms, including those that pose a threat to human health and/or our environment. Since biofilm attachment and growth cannot be prevented, billions of dollars are spent every year in attempting manage their development and impacts.

By working with industries to develop innovative solutions that meet their needs and alleviate their biofilm-related problems, the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation aims to (i) transform biofouling management strategies for maritime platforms; (ii) train the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists and engineers; and (iii) to develop biofilm management strategies across the defence and water industries to address evolving regulatory stringency.

The ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD scholarship program will support the development of a new generation of specialists and leaders in biofilm monitoring and control. Our students will have access to world-class training, professional development and mentoring and be provided with a unique opportunity to undertake collaborative research projects and training with our industry partners.

Working within a large research entity (including PhDs, post-doctoral researchers, university chief investigators and industry partner investigators), scholarship recipients will work closely with an industry partner organisation to undertake industry research. Scholarship recipients will have access to mentoring, training, professional and personal development through our unique Foundation Training Program and will undertake a 12-month industry placement.

• Table of Content
• About Flinders University
• ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship
• Requirements for ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship Qualification
• Interview date, Process and Venue for ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship
• 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

ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship

This PhD Scholarship offers:

• $38,982 per annum for up to 3.5 years (full time).
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision.
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area.
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges.
• A collaborative research community where you can enhance your skills and build your network to progress your research career.

Support through the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation Foundation Program including specialist training and development, and the opportunity to undertake a 12-month industry placement.

Requirements for ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship Qualification

To be eligible for a PhD Scholarship you will need:

• Eligible to gain an Australian Defence Clearance and meet International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR); Ability to provide a National Police Clearance obtained within the last 3 months; And potentially attain, and maintain, an Australian Security clearance level NV1 as determined under the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF). To check eligibility please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency Website.
• Meet Flinders University PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A, a Master Degree, or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher; and
• Scholarship recipients are expected to take up their studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the industry partner, up to maximum of 3 months from the time of acceptance of the scholarship.  In exceptional circumstances and with approval of the industry partner and the University, this time may be extended to 6 months; and
• Any other eligibility criteria relevant to the industry partner/research project (e.g., have or be able to apply for a National Police Criminal History Check, capable of obtaining and maintaining a baseline security clearance from AGSVA).

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• Honours/Masters degree with a focus on environmental science and/or hydrology.
• Interest in working with an industry partner.
• Drivers licence.
• Interest in organising and conducting field work, including interstate.

Interview date, Process and Venue for ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation PhD Scholarship

Selection Criteria

Selection of the successful awardee will be made by the project lead.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

• Complete the attached Higher Degree by Research Scholarship Application Form, send your application with supporting documentation to ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation via email at: [email protected].
• Applications close:  31 March 2024 (or until filled)
• To find out more about this exciting scholarship opportunity, contact the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation via email at: [email protected].
• Please note that successful scholarship applicants must also apply for, and be admitted to, a HDR candidature at Flinders University to receive the scholarship. For further information refer to: Apply for a Higher Degree by Research

The scholarship applications may close earlier than advertised if a successful awardee is selected. The start date of the project will be decided in consultation with the project lead, with expectation that the successful awardee will commence as soon as practicable.

Submit an application

For more details, visit Flinders University website.