Identification and prioritisation of emerging cyanotoxins using advanced sampling and analytical approaches

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms pose an increasing risk to drinking water supplies, aquatic ecosystems, and public health in Australia. Current monitoring focuses on a limited number of well-characterised cyanotoxins, while many additional toxins and transformation products remain poorly understood.

This PhD project addresses this gap by developing integrated analytical and sampling approaches to improve the detection and prioritisation of emerging cyanotoxins. You will combine high-resolution mass spectrometry, effect-based bio-assays, and novel passive sampling technologies to identify known and previously uncharacterised cyanotoxins in laboratory cultures and environmental samples.

You will examine changes in toxin profiles during bloom development, senescence, and water treatment processes. Outcomes will directly support improved monitoring strategies, risk assessment, and guideline development for Australian water systems.

QAEHS is internationally recognised for research excellence in the environmental sciences. The centre has established state-of-the-art sampling, analysis, and archiving facilities located at UQ's Dutton Park Campus.

QAEHS maintains 7x LC MS/MS and 5x GC-MS instruments, with a dedicated trace analytical laboratory and state-of-the-art instrumentation.

You will join a cohort of >30 HDR students researching human and environmental exposure to environmental contaminants.You will have access to centre-level travel support scheme supporting participation at international conferences. You will receive full access to your own computer and work station. 

The research is supported through a number of grants and collaborations, including a generous research consumable budget.

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 chemistry, analytical chemistry, or water quality science would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of chemistry, environmental science, chemical engineering, or environmental engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of analytical chemistry, high-resolution mass spectrometry, or non-target screening is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 14 June, 2026 25 December, 2030.

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 Dr Rory Verhagen (rory.verhagen@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: CYANOTOXINS-VERHAGEN
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/identification-and-prioritisation-emerging-cyanotoxins-using-advanced-sampling-and-analytical-approaches

Submit an EOI