PhD Student

About QIMR Berghofer:

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer, Infection and Inflammation, Brain and Mental Health, and Population Health. Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and non-research staff.

About the Barrier Immunity Laboratory:

The Barrier Immunity Laboratory is a newly established lab within the Infection and Inflammation Program. Our lab investigates how epithelial cells maintain immune homeostasis and barrier function at mucosal tissues, with a particular focus on the gut and lung. We combine cutting-edge organoid co-culture systems with single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to understand the complex cellular ecosystems at mucosal interfaces during health and disease.

Role Purpose / Responsibilities:

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position to build a unified cross-tissue atlas of mucosal barrier tissues. This project will integrate single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and microbiome profiling to uncover conserved and tissue-specific cellular programs.

The successful candidate will:

• Conduct original research leading to the preparation and submission of a doctoral thesis.
• Develop and implement scalable computational pipelines for processing and integrating single-cell and multi-modal datasets.
• Construct a large-scale cross-tissue barrier atlas and apply advanced computational methods to identify conserved and tissue-specific biological programs.
• Maintain accurate research records, data documentation, and reproducible code repositories.
• Contribute intellectually to the project through data interpretation, presentations, and preparation of manuscripts for publication.
• Collaborate with supervisors, lab members, and external partners, and participate in regular supervision meetings, seminars, and thesis committee reviews.

About you:

We are seeking a highly motivated, independent, and organised domestic or onshore international candidate with strong computational and bioinformatics skills. Prior experience with single-cell transcriptomics, spatial analysis, or large-scale data integration is highly desirable. A keen interest in mucosal biology, immunology, or systems biology is expected.

Essential:

• A bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, or a related field
• Excellent academic record and prior relevant research experience
• Strong programming skills, especially with Python and genomics or transcriptomics data
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in collaborative research teams with enthusiasm and curiosity

Desirable:

• Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing or spatial transcriptomics
• Familiarity with microbiome data analysis and multi-omics integration
• Prior knowledge and strong interest in immunology or barrier tissue biology

Remuneration:

The successful applicant will receive a tuition waiver for enrolment as a full-time PhD student (part-time options are not possible) at the University of Queensland or Queensland University of Technology, a living stipend of $36,400 AUD per annum for 3.5 years and single cover overseas student health cover (OSHC) for international candidates. All research will take place on-site at QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute (Brisbane, Australia).

For further information:  please contact Team Head, Dr Amanda Oliver

Closing Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025

To submit an application: use the APPLY button. All applicants must supply the following documents: Resume and Cover letter addressing the selection criteria outlined above.

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid visa with study rights.

What we offer:

• Exceptional research training and career development opportunities
• State of the art facilities
• Stimulating work setting focussed on cutting edge medical research
• Supportive and collaborative team environment