Company Description

The Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics brings together over 400 researchers and professional staff who are dedicated to addressing complex health challenges through innovative solutions. Our work aims to deliver tangible, immediate benefits both locally and globally, with a particular focus on improving the lives of people in underserved and disadvantaged communities.

The successful PhD applicant will be based at the Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics (IBG), Griffith University, Gold Coast and will work within a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment. As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations.

Griffith University sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Job Description

We are currently seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate passionate about cutting-edge vaccine technology and the intricate world of glycobiology. This is an Industry PhD Scholarship with Sanofi as the industry partner. This project offers a unique opportunity to delve into how host-specific glycosylation patterns profoundly impact antigen immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy. You will utilize advanced glycoanalytical techniques, and in vivo immunogenicity assessment to precisely characterise glycan structures on mRNA-expressed antigens, ultimately aiming to develop superior mRNA vaccines with enhanced protective capabilities.

This PhD project will be undertaken within the GlycoMatrix Group, led by Dr. Arun Everest-Dass, at the Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast. The group is at the forefront of glycoscience research, specialising in the development and application of advanced mass spectrometry and imaging technologies. Research areas include spatial glycomics, glycoproteomics, and single-cell analyses, with a focus on mapping and elucidating the roles of glycans in health and disease.

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative methodologies, the team is actively identifying novel glycan-based biomarkers and therapeutic targets, particularly in the contexts of cancer biology, infectious diseases, and immune regulation. The group’s work bridges fundamental glycobiology and translational research, contributing to the advancement of precision diagnostics and next-generation vaccine development.

Qualifications

The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, a scientific background in at least one of the mentioned disciplines is sought- Biochemistry, Mass Spectrometry, Spatial or Single cell omics and experience in molecular biology techniques, cell biology or analytical glycobiology is desirable.

• Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants. If you are an international applicant who is currently offshore please consider the viability of travelling costs before submitting an expression of interest. Please see the FAQs web page for requirements for offshore international applicants.
• Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.

Please note:

• Background or experience in mass spectrometry is highly desired.

International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

1. A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
2. A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
3. A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

Additional Information

About the scholarship
The scholarship has an annual stipend of $50,000 for a period of up to three years of full-time study.

A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.

What Griffith offers
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

EoI process
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to [email protected] containing:

• Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
• Research proposal
• Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section, including a copy of your academic transcript
• A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
• Names of two referees

Closing date for expressions of interest is: Friday 22 August 2025 5pm AEST

The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line

For project related enquiries please contact:
Dr. Arun Everest-Dass
Email: [email protected]

For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Email: [email protected]