Biological sciences » Biological engineering

Biological sciences » Laboratory animal science

Medical sciences » Health sciences

Organisation/Company Adelaide University Department Centre for Cancer Biology Research Field Medical sciences » Cancer research Biological sciences » Biological engineering Biological sciences » Laboratory animal science Medical sciences » Health sciences Chemistry » Biochemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 26 Sep 2026 - 17:00 (Australia/Adelaide) Country Australia Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 2 Sep 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

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies, with a 5-year survival rate less than 13%. Early detection remains one of the greatest challenges, as patients often remain asymptomatic until they present with advanced, incurable disease.
A critical step towards improving patient survival requires a deeper understanding of the earliest events that drive disease development. However, the origin and pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer remain poorly understood. Uncovering the biological mechanisms that drive tumour initiation and subsequent growth holds significant promise for improving patient outcomes.

This PhD project explores the novel concept that cell fusion between two healthy cells may play a role in the genesis of pancreatic cancer. With strong preliminary data that cellular stressors can induce spontaneous fusion between normal pancreatic cells, this project uses cell biology,



molecular biology and animal models to investigate how these hybrid cells favour carcinogenesis.

- An undergraduate degree in cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, immunology or equivalent
- Demonstrated research experience in laboratory skills (cancer biology, cell culture, protein work, microscopy) and relevant area(s)
- A strong interest in oncology, tumour biology, pancreatic cancer, cell biology, molecular mechanisms, imaging
- A willingness to work with animal models of cancer
- An interest in translating laboratory research into clinically useful outcomes
- A willingness to develop skills across complementary scientific and biomedical disciplines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Research Field Medical sciences » Cancer researchBiological sciences » Biological engineeringBiological sciences » Laboratory animal science Years of Research Experience 1 - 4

Additional Information

- The prospect to work in a highly collaborative environment within the Centre for Cancer Biology that houses over 200 dedicated cancer research scientists at Adelaide University & SA Pathology
- Located within the Adelaide BioMed Precinct that includes the Royal Adelaide Hospital
- 3.5 years funding includes stipend, and tuition fees for international students
- The opportunity to produce high-quality publications
- Funding for research consumables and travel to international conferences

Selection process

Submission of an EOI is not an application for admission to Adelaide University and does not guarantee a scholarship offer.

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📌 Fully funded PhD scholarships to explore cell fusion as an inciting event for pancreatic cancer (Adelaide)
🏢 Adelaide University
📍 Adelaide