Photosynthetic Production of Valuable Microbial Biochemicals
PhD Scholarship
This project aims to develop a carbon-negative biomanufacturing platform, using cyanobacteria, to produce sustainable biochemicals for agriculture, health, and environmental applications.
This project aims to develop a sustainable platform for the manufacture of valuable biochemicals from cyanobacteria, including neuroactive, metal-binding, and UV-blocking compounds.
Current manufacturing methods are costly, inefficient and detrimental to the environment. This project will adopt a synthetic biology approach to develop a potentially carbon-negative (photosynthetic) process for their industrial-scale production.
Improved access to biochemicals, with novel applications in agriculture, bioremediation, environmental monitoring, and health, will strengthen Australia’s emerging biomanufacturing industry, with flow-on improvements to food and water security, the economy and the health of our planet.
PhD Scholarship details
Funding:
Australian Research Council Linkage Project, $38,938 per annum (2026 rate) indexed annually. For a PhD candidate, the living allowance scholarship is for 3.5 years, and the tuition fee scholarship is for 3.5 years. Scholarships also include up to $1,500 relocation allowance.
Supervisor: Prof Brett Neilan
Available to: Domestic students
PhD
Eligibility Criteria
The applicant will need to meet the minimum eligibility criteria for admission. Please note: we are not accepting International applications at this time.
Application Procedure
Interested applicants should send an email expressing their interest along with scanned copies of their academic transcripts, CV, a brief statement of their research interests and a proposal that specifically links them to the research project. Candidates will need to commence prior to 01/05/2026.
Please send the email expressing interest to Leanne.Pearson@newcastle.edu.au by 5pm on 01 June 2026.
Applications Close 01 June 2026 Apply Now
- Contact: Dr Leanne Pearson
- Phone: 1300 275 866
- Email: Leanne.Pearson@newcastle.edu.au
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.