Biological sciences » Biological engineering

Engineering » Biomedical engineering

Medical sciences » Cancer research

Medical sciences » Health sciences

Organisation/Company Adelaide University Department Future Industries Institute Research Field Chemistry » Biochemistry Biological sciences » Biological engineering Engineering » Biomedical engineering Engineering » Biomaterial engineering Engineering » Materials engineering Medical sciences » Cancer research Medical sciences » Health sciences Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 25 Sep 2026 - 17:00 (Australia/Adelaide) Country Australia Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 27 Aug 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Help transform surgery through molecular imaging

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an exciting multidisciplinary project developing targeted fluorescent probes to help surgeons identify and remove diseased tissue more accurately.

Project overview

This project will develop targeted near-infrared fluorescent probes for fluorescence-guided surgery, with applications in cancer and endometriosis. The student will design and compare polymer-based formulations carrying fluorescent dyes, with the aim of increasing signal brightness, improving tissue targeting and reducing self-quenching caused by dye clustering. Probes will be designed to target molecular markers associated with diseased cells and their surrounding stromal microenvironment.



Leading candidates will be evaluated using in vitro models, human tissues, preclinic al models and a clinical near-infrared laparoscopic imaging system. The overarching goal is to develop safe and translatable molecular imaging agents that provide surgeons with real-time visual guidance, enabling more complete and precise removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy structures.

You will be working within the Adelaide University’s Bioengineering group. The group is highly cross-disciplinary and focussed on translating technological advances in biomedical engineering towards improving outcomes for patients. PhD students within the group are supported by postdocs with experience in PhD student co-supervision and benefit from full access to state-of-the-art facilities and our strong international network of collaborators. You will be living in Adelaide, which has been ranked the 8th most liveable city in the world in the 2026 Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index.

Requirements

Research Field Chemistry » Biochemistry Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field Engineering » Biomedical engineering Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field Engineering » Biomaterial engineering Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field Medical sciences » Cancer research Education Level Master Degree or equivalent





Research Field Technology » Biotechnology Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

- An undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering, chemistry, biochemistry or equivalent
- Demonstrated research experience in relevant area(s)
- An interest in endometriosis, reproductive health, oncology, molecular imaging and/or image-guided surgery
- An interest in translating laboratory research into clinically useful technologies
- A willingness to develop skills across complementary scientific and biomedical disciplines
- Robust written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team

Experience in polymer synthesis, nanoparticle formulation, fluorescence imaging, cell culture or preclinical research would be advantageous but is not essential.

Languages ENGLISH Level Good

Research Field Medical sciences » Cancer researchEngineering » Biomedical engineeringTechnology » Biotechnology Years of Research Experience 1 - 4

Additional Information

- The opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment spanning biomedical engineering, polymer chemistry, nanomedicine, molecular imaging, oncology, reproductive medicine
- The opportunity to contribute to the clinical translation of molecular imaging technology developed by precision surgical oncology company Ferronova
- 3.5 years funding includes stipend ($AU36,5000/year tax-free) and tuition fees for international students
- The opportunity to produce high-quality publications
- Funding for research consumables and travel to international conferences

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📌 Fully funded PhD scholarships to develop fluorescent polymer probes forprecision surgery (Adelaide)
🏢 Adelaide University
📍 Adelaide