Investigate the interactions of micropollutants on the spread of antimicrobial resistance among environmental microbes

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global challenge, yet its spread in environments outside clinical settings and the impact of associated micropollutants are poorly understood. Our current knowledge is primarily based on single-species responses to individual micropollutants. However, in natural environments, microbes are exposed to multiple micropollutants simultaneously. These combinations may produce effects that are equal to, stronger than (synergistic), or weaker than (antagonistic) the sum of their parts. Understanding these effects is crucial for assessing ecosystem health and recommending pollution mitigation strategies. This PhD project aims to investigate the complex impact of environmental micropollutants on the spread of antimicrobial resistance in environmental microbial communities. By including non-model species that better represent natural microbial communities, we will gain a deeper understanding of micropollutants-microbes interactions.

This PhD project is within UQ’s defined strength of environmental science (the top 20 in the world). QAEHS has a particular strength in environmental monitoring, analytical chemistry, and human exposure risk assessment. QAEHS has student support programs such as scholarship top-up. QAEHS has a newly equipped and well-maintained PC2 laboratory with all the advanced equipment and other resources this project needs. These include 13 state-of-the-art mass spectrometers – five Sciex LC-MS triple quadrupoles (Q), two LC-MS QTOFs, a GC-Orbitrap, an HRGC-HRMS and a GC-triple quadrupole, and an NCI-GC-triple quadrupole.

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 bioinformatic analyses, bacterial culturing, bioreactor operation, and molecular biology techniques would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of microbiology, molecular biology, environmental engineering and microbial ecology and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of antimicrobial resistance is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Dr Ji Lu (j.lu2@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 5 May, 2025 5 May, 2025.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter MICROPOLLUTANTS-LU.

Apply now