This PhD research scholarship (Learning Lessons from Drug Resistance to Tackle Herbicide Resistance) is funded by the Australian Research Council to support a full-time PhD student to undertake cutting-edge research in biochemistry, molecular biology and plant science. The student will be supervised by Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa based at the University of Adelaide. Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa is an Australian Research Council Future Fellow and the Head of the Herbicide and Antimicrobial Innovation Laboratory. Her laboratory focuses on developing innovative strategies to mitigate the rise in herbicide and antimicrobial resistance that threatens the global agricultural and health industries.

This exciting project will draw on parallels with drug resistance to investigate a new molecular mechanism of herbicide resistance transfer in weeds. The student will work in a vibrant, multi-disciplinary team and develop skills in biochemistry, molecular biology and plant science. The findings from this project have the potential to revolutionise strategies to preserve and restore the efficacy of current and future herbicides, with long-term social, economic, and environmental benefits arising from improved crop yields safeguarding food security.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents of Australia, or international students who are acceptable candidates for a PhD degree at the University of Adelaide. Applicants must hold an Honours-level qualification (First Class) or equivalent in relevant fields, such as biochemistry, molecular biology or plant science. The successful awardee must commence by 30 March 2026.

Stipend:

The scholarship will be for 3.5 years and has a stipend of $35,300 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually). It is likely to be tax exempt, subject to Taxation Office approval. 

Enquiries:

Contact Person: Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa

School of Agriculture, Food and Wine

Tel: (08) 8313 1069 

Email: tatiana.soaresdacosta@adelaide.edu.au

Applying:

Expressions of interest should be submitted to Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa (tatiana.soaresdacosta@adelaide.edu.au) by no later than 30 September 2025 with the name of scholarship in the subject heading. Please ensure you include all the following documents:

• Academic transcripts
• Translations of non-English documentation (if applicable)
• Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter that outlines your:

  • demonstrated research capability through thesis work, practical laboratory experience, or a combination of education and experience in biochemistry, molecular biology and/or plant science;

  • well-developed communication and interpersonal skills; 

  • willingness and enthusiasm for working in multi-disciplinary teams and environments; and 

  • demonstrated ability to work independently and be self-motivated to complete research to a high standard.