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.

This project offers not only technical training and research excellence but also professional development and networking opportunities that will prepare you for a successful career in academia, industry, or beyond.

Candidates with a strong interest in the following areas are particularly encouraged to apply:

• Drug delivery
• Antimicrobial agents
• Medical technologies and smart devices
• Biochemical engineering
• Wound infection/prevention

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

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.