What we offer
The Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN) is a haven for PhD students seeking to undertake research in the disciplines of personalised medicine, nanoengineered materials and the bioeconomy, while accessing world-class facilities that are at the cutting edge of biological, chemical and physical sciences.
We have a proven track record in:
Creating global connections for our PhD students
Identifying, and pursuing, ground-breaking research that has real-world impact
Designing world-first technology in partnership with our students
Urgent solutions are needed for the way our global community generates and uses energy, engages with our environment, and deals with serious health issues. At the AIBN we're working on the answers.
Established in 2004, we are one of the largest institutes of our kind globally, and are proud to call The University of Queensland home.
Students will also feel right at home, with a range of inclusive social events regularly hosted by the AIBN Students' Association (ASA) to provide a community and support network for the students that work at the AIBN.
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How to apply
The pathway to a PhD can be daunting or confusing, but it doesn't have to be. Please read the how-to guide under the heading most relevant to you. If you still have questions, please see our Frequently Asked Questions section.
You're a domestic student if you are:
- a citizen of Australia or New Zealand,
- an Australian permanent resident, or
- a holder of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa.
In order to progress forward with a PhD at the AIBN as a domestic student, you will need to do the following.
1. Meet the entry requirements
To progress forward with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at the AIBN, you will need to prove that you:
- have completed some research experience (for example, you can provide evidence that you've planned and executed project work and/or a body of research with some independence)
- have completed an approved university degree in your field of research no more than 10 years ago, and;
- can meet the English language requirements.
You can find more on entry requirements here.
2. Find a supervisor
Identify a researcher with relevant expertise and get agreement to support your PhD and project. A full list of research Group Leaders who have capacity can be found below.
Group Leaders also post their student projects here.
3. Gather your documents
A full list of the necessary documents can be found here.
4. Apply online
Once you have prepared your application and contacted a potential supervisor, use the online application form to apply. Your application can only be assessed once your referees have responded to us, and all outstanding documents and school/institute endorsements have been received.
You're an international student if you are:
- intending to study on a student visa,
- not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand,
- not an Australian permanent resident, or
- a temporary resident (visa status) of Australia.
In order to progress forward with a PhD at the AIBN as an international student, you will need to do the following.
1. Meet the entry requirements
To progress forward with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at the AIBN, you will need to prove that you:
- have completed some research experience (for example, you can provide evidence that you've planned and executed project work and/or a body of research with some independence)
- have completed an approved university degree in your field of research no more than 10 years ago, and;
- can meet the English language requirements.
You can find more on entry requirements here.
2. Find a supervisor
Identify a researcher with relevant expertise and get agreement to support your PhD and project. A full list of research Group Leaders who have capacity can be found below.
Group Leaders also post their student projects here.
3. Gather your documents
A full list of the necessary documents can be found here.
4. Apply online
Once you have prepared your application and contacted a potential supervisor, use the online application form to apply. Your application can only be assessed once your referees have responded to us, and all outstanding documents and school/institute endorsements have been received.
5. Apply for a student visa once you are approved
As soon as you receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Queensland, apply for your visa.
International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Doctor of Philosophy are eligible to apply for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500).
There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement.
You can learn more here.
Financial packages and support
Looking for a financial package or scholarship? Here at the AIBN we offer a range of financial support options so you can relax and focus on your research.
Make sure you check scholarship round application deadlines and outcome dates before applying.
There is also a great explainer resource for scholarships on the UQ website, which can be found here.
Travel and IT support
PhD students are eligible for an IT support package to purchase a desktop or laptop computer package here at the AIBN.
Students are also eligible for funding to support participation and travel to scientific conferences or workshops.
- Domestic travel: up to $1,000
- International travel: up to $3,000
At the time of application, students needs to be enrolled in a PhD through AIBN. They must also achieve the following:
- Students must have completed their confirmation of candidature
- Enrolment must still be active at the time of the travel
- Students must demonstrate an attendance record of at least 50% for seminars (minimum 20 per year and at least 10 from the AIBN Seminar Series) from 14th of April 2022
Are you a current student? Learn more on the internal AIBN website here.
Frequently asked questions
If you have any other questions, please contact our dedicated HDR team.
What student success has the AIBN had?
When are the research quarters, and their cut-off dates, so I can apply?
I'd like to see a full list of scholarships (domestic and international)
I want to learn more about scholarships at UQ
What are the cut-off dates for UQ graduate school scholarships?
What is a higher degree by research (HDR)?
How do I apply for a PhD, MPhil or professional doctorate?
Do I need to have a supervisor before submitting my PhD application?
"My PhD at the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology focuses on white matter disease; specifically an ultra-rare inherited neuro degenerative condition known as Hypomyelination with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and leg spasticity. My goal is to understand this disease and the application of how it can be extended to other diseases in white matter."
- Bahaa Al-mhanawi, Entrepreneurial PhD Scholar
"My PhD project focuses on using bacteria that consume waste gases to produce biofuels. The AIBN has provided me the tools to develop research skills to work towards solutions to real-life problems in a multidisciplinary, multicultural, and supportive environment. Having the opportunity to undertake a PhD here also allowed me to meet passionate researchers on their field’s forefront, increasing my curiosity and helping me shape my career interests."
- Karen Rodriguez Martinez, PhD student
Contact us
If you have general enquiries about studying at AIBN please contact our HDR team
