This project will investigate how Cryptosporidium and malaria parasites build and utilise host cell invasion machinery. These 3.5 year scholarships are part of Australian Research Council funded projects to support full-time PhD students in research of this unique cell and molecular biology of apicomplexan parasites (Cryptosporidium and malaria parasites). One Scholarship will focus on the molecular mechanisms governing invasion machinery development in Cryptosporidium while the other will focus on different aspects in Plasmodium falciparum and P. knowlesi malaria parasites. Both roles will include in vitro parasite and mammalian cell culture, construction of gene-edited parasite lines, cutting-edge microscopy, protein characterisation, application of general cell and molecular biology techniques and will work closely with project collaborators. One role will also include use of an in vivo mouse model of Cryptosporidium infection.

Eligibility: 

Applicants are encouraged from Australian citizens, permanent residents and overseas students who are acceptable as candidates for a PhD degree at the University of Adelaide. 

Stipend:

There are two scholarships available. Each scholarship will be for up to 3.5 years and has a stipend of $35,921 (indexed annually) per annum. It is likely to be tax exempt, subject to Taxation Office approval. 

Enquiries:

Doctor Benjamin Liffner, School of Biological Sciences

(Please quote the scholarship in any correspondence)

Expression of interest 

Expressions of interest should be submitted to Dr Benjamin Liffner (Benjamin.liffner@adelaide.edu.au) by no later than 18 July 2025 with the name of scholarship in the subject heading. Please ensure you include all of the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae

• Degree certificates (testamurs)

• Academic transcripts

• Translations of non-English documentation

• Evidence of English language proficiency (i.e. official IELTS, TOEFL scores)

   

Please also include a cover letter which outlines your:

• Demonstrated experience in in vitro tissue culture and techniques related to cell and/or molecular biology.

• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Willingness and enthusiasm for working in multidisciplinary teams and environments.

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

• Relevant experience in apicomplexan parasite, malaria parasite, or Cryptosporidium models is desirable but not essential to be a strong candidate for the position.

• Relevant experience in rodent/animal models of infectious disease parasites is desirable but not essential to be a strong candidate for the position.