Deciphering known and unknown chemical drivers of antimicrobial resistance in environmental mixtures

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat, contributing to millions of deaths annually and undermining treatment of infections worldwide. While antibiotic misuse is a key driver, environmental chemical pollution also selects for resistance, yet remains poorly understood.

This project will integrate a novel high-throughput bioassay (SELECT) with targeted and untargeted chemical analysis to identify both known and unknown environmental chemicals that drive AMR.

You will screen samples from wastewater and other environmental hotspots for selective effects, isolate unknown drivers via fractionation, and identify chemicals using high-resolution mass spectrometry.

The outcomes will fill critical gaps in understanding how complex chemical mixtures contribute to AMR and support evidence-based strategies for AMR management.

The Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS) at The University of Queensland is supported by world-class research infrastructure and expert technical staff.

QAEHS offers extensive analytical chemistry and environmental laboratories with advanced chromatography and spectrometry systems for organic analysis, sample preparation, and trace chemical detection.

Researchers also have access to environmental microbiology facilities for molecular and culture-based work. These facilities provide the equipment and technical support needed for high-throughput bioassays, targeted and non-targeted chemical analysis, and isolation of unknown AMR-selective chemicals essential to this project.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of environmental science/chemistry/microbiology would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in a relevant field such as environmental science, environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of microbiology and/or environmental chemistry is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 25 December, 2030 8 July, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Kevin Thomas (kevin.thomas@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: ANTIMICROBIAL-THOMAS
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/deciphering-known-and-unknown-chemical-drivers-antimicrobial-resistance-environmental-mixtures

Submit an EOI