If you are interested in joining The Shiddiky Laboratory, please submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Professor Muhammad J. A. Shiddiky (Email: [email protected]), including the following documents:

• Statement of suitability: Explain why you are a good fit for the project and/or scholarship. Describe how your proposed research aligns with our current and emerging research activities (please review our Research and Publications for reference).

• Relevant experience: Provide details of your knowledge, skills, and experience that demonstrate your ability to successfully complete the proposed research project within the expected timeframe. Highlight how your background directly connects to the research topic.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include a brief CV with your full list of publications and citations.

• Research proposal: Submit a short outline of your proposed research project.

• References: Provide contact details for two referees who can comment on your academic and research abilities.

We are seeking highly motivated and talented PhD students to join The Shiddiky Laboratory. Our research focuses on developing cutting-edge liquid biopsy technologies and portable point-of-care/on-site diagnostic devices for applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts across chemistry, nanotechnology, medicine, engineering, plant science, and biosecurity. You will also have the chance to apply your research in both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Outstanding candidates, following CV screening and interview, may be nominated for admission into the PhD program with a scholarship at Charles Sturt University. Dedicated scholarship opportunities are available each year through project-based grants for both domestic and international students.

Key Selection Criteria

• A degree equivalent to first-class honours in Australia.

• Academic background in one or more of the following fields: analytical chemistry, materials chemistry, nanotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, microbiology, genetics, or plant biotechnology (with a GPA equivalent to High Distinction (HD) in Australia).

• Experience in microfabrication and hands-on skills in device fabrication are desirable but not essential.

• Strong academic writing and communication skills.

• A solid track record of research publications.

Additional Requirements

• Domestic applicants: Must have completed (or expect to complete) a bachelor's degree with first-class honours and intend to enrol full-time in an approved doctoral program.

• International applicants: Should have an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or higher (with no individual band below 6.0) or an equivalent TOEFL score.

We welcome applications from candidates who are passionate about advancing diagnostics and making a real-world impact through their research.

The Shiddiky Laboratory offers a range of Master’s and Honours research projects focused on the development of liquid biopsy technologies and portable point-of-care/on-site diagnostic devices. These projects have applications across medicine, agriculture, and environmental monitoring, providing students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge research and access to a multidisciplinary research environment.

Postdoctoral research positions at The Shiddiky Laboratory become available periodically through various funding sources, including ARC and industry-supported projects. We also actively welcome talented early-career researchers who have secured fellowships from agencies such as the ARC or NHMRC and are seeking a dynamic, supportive environment to advance their careers.

Research Focus Areas

Postdoctoral researchers will contribute to projects developing liquid biopsy technologies and portable point-of-care/on-site diagnostic devices with applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. Our lab offers a multidisciplinary research setting, fostering collaboration across chemistry, nanotechnology, engineering, plant science, biosecurity, and medicine.

Key Selection Criteria

• A PhD in one of the following or related disciplines: analytical chemistry, materials chemistry, nanotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, microbiology, genetics, or plant biotechnology.

• Research experience in one or more of the following areas: molecular diagnostics, biosensing, nanofabrication, or biotechnology.

• Demonstrated research excellence, evidenced by a strong track record of high-quality publications and prior research productivity.

• Qualified and motivated candidates are encouraged to contact Professor Muhammad J. A. Shiddiky directly to explore potential opportunities.