Macrophage Therapeutic Potential in Metabolic Disease

Metabolic diseases represent a significant health challenge globally. Macrophages, key cells of the immune system, are crucial for regulating metabolism in both healthy and diseased states. These cells are abundant in metabolic organs like the liver, adipose tissue, and pancreas, where they help maintain energy balance, support tissue function, and prevent inflammation. In the pancreas, macrophages influence insulin production and beta-cell function. However, under stress or injury, activated macrophages can drive inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, contributing to conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Our research demonstrates that macrophage stimulation promotes liver growth, increases lean mass, reduces fat mass, and lowers liver fat. We propose that macrophages are integral to maintaining metabolic homeostasis, with potential therapeutic implications for obesity, diabetes, and related disorders. This PhD project aims to investigate the mechanisms by which macrophages regulate metabolism across organs.

The Mater Research Institute - UQ (MRI-UQ) is a leading institute dedicated to advancing academic research and translating discoveries into clinical practice for widespread benefit. Formed through a partnership between Mater Research and The University of Queensland, MRI-UQ combines Mater’s strong clinical collaboration opportunities with UQ’s expertise in research, education, and teaching. The institute is home to over 300 research staff, postgraduate students, and clinical researchers, with 70 students currently pursuing PhD, MPhil, or Honours programs. MRI-UQ researchers have access to state-of-the-art facilities at the Translational Research Institute, enabling cutting-edge biomedical research and innovation.

This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.

The scholarship includes:

• living stipend of $36,400 per annum tax free (2025 rate), indexed annually
• your tuition fees covered
• single overseas student health cover (OSHC).

Learn more about the Fellowship support scheme 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 immunology, physiology, biochemistry, or molecular biology would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of biomedical sciences, immunology, or metabolism and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of cell culture, flow cytometry, transcriptomics, and animal models is highly desirable.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 1, 2026. To allow time for your application to be processed, we recommend applying no later than 30 September, 2025 30 June, 2025.

You can start in an earlier research quarter. See application dates.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. Contact Dr Sahar Keshvari (s.keshvari@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for a PhD. 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
• UQ Earmarked Scholarship type.

Apply now