About the Project
Help transform surgery through molecular imaging
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an exciting multidisciplinary project developing targeted fluorescent probes to help surgeons identify and remove diseased tissue more accurately.
Project overview
This project will develop targeted near-infrared fluorescent probes for fluorescence-guided surgery, with applications in cancer and endometriosis. The student will design and compare polymer-based formulations carrying fluorescent dyes, with the aim of increasing signal brightness, improving tissue targeting and reducing self-quenching caused by dye clustering. Probes will be designed to target molecular markers associated with diseased cells and their surrounding stromal microenvironment. Leading candidates will be evaluated using in vitro models, human tissues, preclinic al models and a clinical near-infrared laparoscopic imaging system. The overarching goal is to develop safe and translatable molecular imaging agents that provide surgeons with real-time visual guidance, enabling more complete and precise removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy structures.
What the project will offer:
- The opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment spanning biomedical engineering, polymer chemistry, nanomedicine, molecular imaging, oncology, reproductive medicine
- The opportunity to contribute to the clinical translation of molecular imaging technology developed by precision surgical oncology company Ferronova
- 3.5 years funding includes stipend ($AU36,5000/year tax-free) and tuition fees for international students
- The opportunity to produce high-quality publications
- Funding for research consumables and travel to international conferences
What you should have:
- An undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering, chemistry, biochemistry or equivalent
- Demonstrated research experience in relevant area(s)
- An interest in endometriosis, reproductive health, oncology, molecular imaging and/or image-guided surgery
- An interest in translating laboratory research into clinically useful technologies
- A willingness to develop skills across complementary scientific and biomedical disciplines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
Experience in polymer synthesis, nanoparticle formulation, fluorescence imaging, cell culture or preclinical research would be advantageous but is not essential.
You will be working within the Adelaide University’s Bioengineering group. The group is highly cross-disciplinary and focussed on translating technological advances in biomedical engineering towards improving outcomes for patients. PhD students within the group are supported by postdocs with experience in PhD student co-supervision and benefit from full access to state-of-the-art facilities and our strong international network of collaborators. You will be living in Adelaide, which has been ranked the 8th most liveable city in the world in the 2026 Economist Intelligence Unit Global Liveability Index.
Please email your expression of interest to Dr Nicole Dmochowska, including a CV and the names and contact information of three referees. Candidates should have recently successfully passed an English language test.
Funding Notes
The project is fully funded and will provide a living allowance of AU$36,000 (tax-free) per year for 3.5 years as well as tuition fees for the PhD program at Adelaide University.
References
Fundamentals and developments in fluorescence-guided cancer surgery Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2022;19(1):9-22. doi: 10.1038/s41571-021-00548-3.
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