Nanotechnologies for Tuberculosis detection and diagnostics

This project aims to revolutionise the diagnosis and characterisation of TB, particularly drug resistant-TB (DR-TB), by integrating nanoparticle-based capture with rapid sequencing.

To achieve this, library of nanobodies will be screened for selecting the right candidate for bioconjugation to the nanoparticles, enabling specific and sensitive TB capture. Deployment of these bioconjugated nanoparticles will significantly reduce the time required to detect and characterise TB directly from clinical samples, eliminating the need for the traditional time-consuming steps for simultaneous removal of contaminants and preconcentration.

We will also incorporate chemical probes that identify specific phenotypic characteristics of DR-TB, further enhancing the accuracy and speed of diagnosis. This PhD is a part of a multinational collaboration to rapidly diagnose TB in southeast Asia, where you will have opportunity to collaborate with various clinicians and researchers from the consortium.   

The Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) boasts one of Australia's best collections of high-end scientific infrastructure, from high-resolution mass spectrometry to state-of-the-art microscopy.

The IMB is ranked in the Top 20 globally for life sciences research. Specifically, the research will be hosted in the Blaskovich research group at IMB. Our group has a suite of microbiological assays, ranging from simple in vitro MIC assays through to mouse in vivo infection models. Additionally, we have dedicated flow cytometry, microfluidics and sequencing capacity for bacterial studies in the laboratory. We have access to nanoparticle characterization capacities like SEM, TEM, XRD and DLS, and BLI/SPR for binding kinetics studies. 

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 general microbiology, molecular biology and/or genomics would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field of microbiology and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of DNA sequencing and data analysis is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 30 June, 2026 31 March, 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 Mark Blaskovich (m.blaskovich@imb.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: TUBERCULOSIS-BLASKOVICH
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/nanotechnologies-tuberculosis-detection-and-diagnostics

Submit an EOI