phd in medical microbiology in australia

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Infection and Immunity PhD Program

2 Minute read

The Infection and Immunity PhD Program is a supplementary learning opportunity to enrich your graduate research experience. The program offers an opportunity to share your research with other disciplines and expand your peer network.

You can find existing Graduate Research courses using our Find a Course search tool.

This PhD Program is a supplementary learning opportunity that will enrich your PhD experience. As a participant, you will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge about infection and immunity. On this program, you will:

• learn from global leaders in infection and immunity
• access high-calibre scientists and facilities
• work in an environment where discovery research meets diagnosis and surveillance
• work with experts in infectious diseases, epidemiology, genomics and more.

The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity delivers this PhD program. The institute is a joint venture between the University of Melbourne and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. You may join this program if you are:

• a graduate researcher at the Doherty Institute
• enrolled in a PhD at the University of Melbourne.

The Doherty Institute is home to high-quality discovery research. It has large diagnostic operations in virology and bacteriology. So, the institute can provide vast research training opportunities in many areas, including:

• epidemiology
• clinical and translational research
• infectious diseases surveillance
• outbreak investigations.

As a program participant, you will access first-class research training in your primary discipline. And you can supplement this with extra workshops, seminars and potential internships. Our key partners in biopharmaceutical-linked industries provide these extra training opportunities. These connections will assist with future employment opportunities, beyond the pure research environment.

Graduate researchers in the Infection and Immunity PhD Program have access to a wide range of workshops. Examples include:

• scientific writing and communication
• project management
• PhD management – organise your time efficiently
• intellectual property
• business and accounting
• immunology data presentation series
• CV and interview preparation
• data management.

You will also attend events such as:

• Meet the Industry Experts
• Doherty Institute Seminar Series

Participate

To take part, you must be enrolled in a PhD at the University of Melbourne, and based at the Doherty Institute.

When you join the program, you will remain enrolled in your current department.

You can join the PhD Program at any time during your candidature. You will remain part of the program until you complete your research degree.

If you’re a current University of Melbourne PhD candidate

• Talk with your supervisor about participating.
• Contact the PhD Program Officer.

If you want to apply for a PhD with the University of Melbourne

• Explore PhD opportunities in infection and immunity.
• Find a supervisor.
• Once you’re accepted as a PhD candidate, contact us.

First published on 21 February 2022.

PhD (Applied Biology & Biotechnology)

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Use your advanced research skills to contribute to new developments in applied biology and biotechnology.

You're viewing program information for local students.

RMIT considers you a local student if you are:

• a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• a New Zealand citizen, or
• a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

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If you are unsure or hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

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You're viewing program information for international students..

RMIT considers you an international student if you are:

• intending to study on a student visa, or
• not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• not a New Zealand citizen, or
• not a a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

If you are unsure or  hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

Not an international student?

Not applicable

Research Training Scheme

See admissions

AU$36,480 (2024 annual)

RMIT has a strong reputation for research and teaching in fundamental science and advanced molecular technologies.

Our innovative programs and projects address real-world issues essential to Australia’s innovation agenda.

Research within this discipline uses molecular approaches to diagnose and synthesise solutions for disease and environmental problems.

Under expert supervision, you will develop your skills and join researchers already active in:

• aquatic and marine biology
• ecotoxicology (biomarkers for environmental pollutants)
• bioremediation of contaminated environments
• environmental and molecular approaches to diagnose and develop solutions for disease, agricultural and environmental problems
• genomics and sequencing techniques applied to various organisms
• microbiology (food, medical, environmental and nano biotechnology, vaccine development, fundamentals of host/pathogen interactions)
• plant biology (plant biotechnology and genomics, molecular plant breeding, ecotoxicogenomics, fire and environmental ecology).

RMIT has purpose-built biotechnology labs and advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, tissue culture, microbiology, nanobiotechnology and analytical biochemistry, and experimental animal house facilities located at our Bundoora and City campuses.

How you will learn

Research at rmit, time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

We have industry partnerships with organisations and companies such as:  

• Macfarlane Burnet Institute
• Biomass Conversion Technologies
• Bioproperties
• Prince Henry’s Institute
• Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the  learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will complete this program under academic supervision.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

• complete a compulsory research methods course
• receive training in research integrity and ethics
• select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
• complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your original contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex or original research for peers and the community to an international standard

You are required to complete:

Research Integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

• Research integrity
• Copyright and intellectual property

Research methods for sciences

Research methods courses step you through the literature review and preparing your research proposal for confirmation of candidature. They are taught in large discipline groups.

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research Techniques

You may elect to take (where relevant) electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help you decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered with the university, college and school according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

You will be able to pursue an academic career in a university or be employed in senior leadership and management positions in government, scientific and industrial research laboratories.

Minimum requirements for admission

Prerequisites, selection tasks.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

• a bachelor degree requiring at least four years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology courses that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year;  or
• a master degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average or a master degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average;  or
• evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the  RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see  How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor.

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
• TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit  English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at  RMIT English Worldwide .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four year  Bachelor and Honours degrees  or  Postgraduate  or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The  student services and amenities fee (SSAF)  is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be  other expenses  associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the  Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website  for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2024 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2024 commencement is AU$151,680.

International applicants

• Fees information  for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
• PhD  and  masters by research  fees for international candidates studying offshore. 

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about  how fees are calculated  and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a  refund  as a continuing international student.

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Looking for answers or more general information.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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The MDUPHL provides a comprehensive microbiology service for the investigation of infectious diseases, and food and waterborne outbreaks in Victoria.

Laureate Professor Peter Doherty

Namesake and patron of the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Laureate Professor Peter Doherty shared the 1996 Nobel Medicine Prize with Swiss colleague Rolf Zinkernagel, for their discoveries about transplantation and “killer” T cell-mediated immunity, an understanding that is currently translating into new cancer treatments. Professor Doherty is Head of the Influenza Research Group in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.

This is one of the greatest eras of scientific discovery, and you can be part of it. No matter what medicine and professional health career you want to pursue – or if you have another pathway such as law, engineering or business in mind – begin your journey here.

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Graduate students are able to undertake study in the PhD (3-4 year program) and the MPhil (2 year degree program). These students in the Research School of Biology (RSB) are enrolled in one of three Graduate Research Fields.

Academic support

RSB offers an excellent research environment and provides students with a high level of support as they work on their research project. RSB has over 70 Group Leaders offering  HDR projects  in areas covering a wide range of biology, and our graduates hold important positions in academia, industry and government agencies throughout the world. All HDR students in the School have, in addition to a primary supervisor, an expert supervisory panel that provides them with support and advice throughout their degree. Each student is also provided with:

• A new computer
• $3,000 (for PhD students) or $2,000 (MPhil) to support travel to conferences

For all domestic (Australian and New Zealand citizens) and International PhD students on full scholarships the Group is allocated up to $5,000 per year for up to four years to support the student’s research costs. The Group support for MPhil students will be $5,000 for up to two years.

Entry to the HDR program is open to applicants who have a comparable Bachelor degree, and a strong research background with either the equivalent of an Australian Honours degree (includes a 10,000 word thesis) or a Master degree with the equivalent thesis component, or alternatively an equivalent publication history.

How to apply

• Find a potential supervisor who is willing to supervise your project. You can contact the staff directly and must have a research proposal ready to discuss with the potential supervisor.
• Academic transcripts and graduation/completion certificate from your Bachelor and Honours degree (please include them in their original language as well as a translation).
• Academic transcripts and graduation/completion certificate from your Masters degree (please include them in their original language as well as a translation).
• Grading scale for your Bachelor, Honours and Masters degree.
• Official document(s) with details of the thesis component in your degree(s) (e.g. thesis topic, the number of word required for the thesis, the credit unit load, the examination details and results).
• A current CV, please include information on scholarships or prizes received, and details of any publications or conferences.
• Research proposal.
• The English Language requirement must be met (e.g Current IELTS or TOEFL results or evidence of prior degrees completed in English from particular universities/countries). All applicants for admission to any ANU program, whether domestic or international, must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission. (Please refer to the  ANU English Language Requirements )
• Three referee reports – You will need to enter your referee details in your application form, the system will automatically send your referees a link to complete an online form and will attach back to your application once they have completed it.

Admission applications are open throughout the year. However, if you would like to be considered for a research scholarship, the Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) scholarship application deadline is 31 August for international students and 31 October for domestic students. For other scholarships deadlines, please check the appropriate website.

Scholarships

There is no separate scholarship application. Students will be considered for the scholarship based upon their application for admission and on them meeting the eligibility requirements.

You can browse for external funding opportunities on:

• the  ANU Scholarships  page,
• the  Scholarships for international biology students  page, or
• CSIRO PhD Top Up Scholarships (XLSX, 20KB), 

If you are considering applying, please use the  flowchart (PDF 88KB)  to assess whether you are eligible for a scholarship. If you have any questions please contact us via  [email protected]

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Antimicrobial Resistance PhD

Why antimicrobial resistance.

Our program is designed to equip the next generation of innovators by creating a group of world-class researchers who can apply their skills in antibiotic resistance to tackle an important global challenge in infectious disease.

The emergence, spread and persistence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is considered by WHO as one of the greatest global threats to human health. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens the treatment and outcome of even simple infections and common medical interventions that until recently were considered low-risk. AMR gives rise to untreatable infections in those most at risk– the young, elderly, and those with underlying co-morbidities.

Over the past decade, AMR has increased at an alarming rate in hospital and community settings worldwide. Many recent reports from national and international organisations (e.g. WHO, CDC, ECDC, EU) have all highlighted the urgent need to address AMR. In 2020, WHO declared that AMR is one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity emphasising the pressing need for new ways to treat or prevent infections to avoid a return to the pre-antibiotic era.

Given the rapid evolution of bacterial pathogens resistant to all classes of conventional antibiotics, one might consider the solution is simply to develop more antibiotics. However, since the ‘golden age’ of antibiotic discovery (1940–1980), the development pipeline has dried to a trickle. Disappointingly, most major pharmaceutical companies withdrew from antibiotic development mainly because of the challenges in identifying new antibacterial agents, the adverse economics of developing drugs that rapidly succumb to resistance and the regulatory barriers.

Difficulties in antibiotic development have been further compounded by pharmaceutical company mergers and the concomitant loss of antibacterial research expertise. Therefore, a new generation of multidisciplinary scientists is required to effectively address AMR at this crucial juncture in modern medicine.

The IMB AMR Cohort is focused on finding solutions to antimicrobial resistance – not only discovering and developing new antibiotics, but also fundamental research to improve our understanding of how bacteria interact with antibiotics and develop resistance, how our body fights infections, and whether we can conceive completely new, non-antibiotic approaches to treat drug-resistant bacteria.  

IMB has extensive national and international collaborations with academics, not-for-profits and companies involved in antimicrobial resistance. Our partnerships include working relationships with the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership ( GARDP ), Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator ( CARB-X ) and The Australian Antimicrobial Resistance network ( AAMRNet ). 

IMB Student Development Team

[email protected]

About the program

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Lecturer In Microbial Biotechnology

demonstrate strong interpersonal skills. You will also have: Completion of a PhD in environmental microbiology , soil biology, microbial biotechnology or related discipline Demonstrated experience in effective

Postdoctoral Research Fellow –Anaerobic Bioreactor Specialist/Microbial Ecologist

anaerobic bioreactors to study the microbiology of climate-critical anaerobic systems where methane metabolism and cycling is a key feature. Focal research areas will include either 1) modulation of the rumen

Lecturer ( Microbiology and Immunology)

bioinformatics) in infectious disease are encouraged to apply. To be considered for this opportunity you will demonstrate: PhD in an academic field relevant to Microbiology or Immunology or other higher

Job no:517028 Work type:full time Location:Crawley Categories:Health and Medical Sciences Lecturer ( Microbiology and Immunology) UWA School of Biomedical Sciences Join a vibrant community of

Research Officer in Bacteriology

team, interacting courteously and effectively with academic, administrative, and support staff, further highlights your suitability for this role. You will also have: PhD in microbiology or a related

Postdoctoral Fellow

successful in this role you will have: PhD (or soon to be awarded) in molecular microbiology or related area. Demonstrated experience in RNA biology of bacterial pathogens preferred. Proven commitment

Research Associate in Water Quality

stakeholders and industry partners. Completion of a PhD in Water quality, Microbiology or Chemistry or significant progress towards completion of a PhD in these areas. Relocation support may be applicable

-developed interpersonal skills and the capacity to collaborate and engage with diverse stakeholders and industry partners. Completion of a PhD in Water quality, Microbiology or Chemistry or significant

Research Assistant

human and animal tissues, carrying out various immunology, cell biology, and microbiology assays. To be successful you will need: Familiarity or commitment to work with clinical research projects

Lecturer, Physiotherapy x 2

candidates, staff and industry, together with a strong commitment to teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration. Mandatory: PhD in a relevant field, and current registration with the Australian Health

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Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microscopic living organisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, protozoa, helminths (parasitic worms) and arthropods (ticks). These organisms have a major impact on all aspects of life, and research drives innovation and delivers solutions for global challenges across health and biotechnology. 

Diseases caused by microbes are well-known and can involve viruses (such as influenza, HIV and Ebola), bacteria (such as meningococcus, Staphylococcus and E. coli) and protozoa (such as malaria). Our understanding of these organisms and how they interact with humans and animals is linked to the development of novel therapies in medicine to control and prevent infectious diseases.

Removal of pollutants using microorganisms, and the key role they play in the cycling of molecules in the biosphere, has led to major growth of environmental microbiology and genomics to study natural microbial communities in the oceans, soils and even inside humans and animals. Microbiologists also play a key role in biosecurity, where identifying animal and plant disease is crucial in agricultural applications for implementing quarantine policies and solutions. 

Why choose UQ?

• Microbiology at UQ is driven by world-renowned researchers who contribute to global research initiatives and actively teach into UQ courses. Our teaching teams comprise educators and researchers from the Australian Society for Microbiology, the Australasian Virology Society and the Australasian Society for Immunology.
• We are ranked #19 in the world and #1 in Australia for microbiology in the 2023  NTU Performance Ranking of Scientific Papers for World Universities.
• You can contribute to research in these areas through undergraduate research experiences  embedded into your studies.
• Research experiences in microbial biotechnology, virology, immunology, environmental microbiology and clinical microbiology are offered across several courses at UQ, which can lead to career opportunities in research, biotechnology, agriculture, veterinary science and clinical diagnostic testing. 

Choose your degree

• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate coursework
• Higher degree by research

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Microbiology

Study the smallest forms of life

Microbiology is the scientific study of the smallest forms of life - bacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi and protozoa. These fascinating microorganisms impact on our lives every day and in many different ways. They are of great benefit to us; they turn the biological wheels on earth and are responsible for the sustainability of all life. They turn over nutrients and elements on a global scale, and they are the main producers of carbon and biomass. Our environment is dependent on microorganisms through recycling of organic wastes, the maintenance of soil fertility and biodegradation of pollutants, to name just a few. The products of microbial action provide us with many foodstuffs, beverages, pharmaceuticals and other products of biotechnology. On the negative side, bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa can cause disease in humans, animals and plants. Rising antimicrobial resistance is one of the top global public health threats facing humanity. Microorganisms can lead to crop destruction, food spoilage and water contamination. The genetic engineering of microorganisms is a fundamental aspect of molecular biology and the way of the future, through biotechnology and synthetic biology.  

Apply transferable skills to a range of careers

Studying microbiology builds microbiology skills as well as transferable skills in data analysis, numeracy and problem solving to prepare you for a range of careers. You could pursue a career as microbiologist, food scientist, medical technologist, biotechnologist or environmental scientist.

Our programs

You can study microbiology in the following undergraduate degrees:

• Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)
• Bachelor of Medical Science
• Bachelor of Science

Gain research experience and enhance your career prospects with an honours degree. These programs are designed to connect your undergraduate study with supervised independent research. An honours degree also provides a pathway into further study, such as a Masters by Research or PhD. You can take honours as a standalone degree or as part of an embedded honours program.

Embedded honours program

Standalone honours program

• Bachelor of Science (Honours)

Honours in the School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences (BABS)

BABS offers honours programs in the following areas:

• microbiology and microbiomes
• genomics and bioinformatics
• molecular and cell biology

Find out more about studying honours in BABS

You can study microbiology in the following postgraduate research degrees:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Masters by Research
• Science Graduate Diploma (Research)

Visit the School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences

Best Global Universities for Microbiology in Australia

These are the top universities in Australia for microbiology, based on their reputation and research in the field. Read the methodology »

To unlock more data and access tools to help you get into your dream school, sign up for the  U.S. News College Compass !

Here are the best global universities for microbiology in Australia

University of melbourne, university of queensland, university of sydney, monash university, university of new south wales sydney, murdoch university, university of western australia, university of technology sydney.

See the full rankings

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• # 13 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 27 in Best Global Universities

The University of Melbourne is a public institution that was founded in 1853. The university has seven campuses... Read More

• # 23 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 36 in Best Global Universities

The University of Queensland Australia is a public institution that was established in 1909. It is located in and around... Read More

• # 39 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 28 in Best Global Universities

The University of Sydney was founded in 1850, making it the oldest university in Australia. The public institution is... Read More

• # 55 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 37 in Best Global Universities  (tie)

Monash University is a public institution that was established in 1958. It is located in the state of Victoria in... Read More

• # 137 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 138 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 673 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 181 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 83 in Best Global Universities
• # 227 in Best Universities for Microbiology
• # 112 in Best Global Universities  (tie)

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Master of Microbiology

Find the best Master of Microbiology

The University of Western Australia (UWA)

Master of Biological Science

Masters (Coursework)

Master of Marine Biology (coursework or coursework and dissertation)

University of Technology, Sydney (UTS)

Bachelor of Advanced Science

Charles Sturt University

Master of Animal Science

University of Melbourne

Master of Science (BioSciences)

Master of computational biology.

James Cook University (JCU)

Master of Marine Biology

AQF level 7 bachelor degree in science with a minimum GPA of 5.0, or equivalent

Master of Microbiology overview

Master degrees like those offered by the  University of Tasmania  take up to two years of full time study to complete, or up to four years part time. The course offers a variety of units to choose from. Some of these include:

• Microbes and man
• Advanced food safety management
• Foodborne pathogens
• Medical microbiology
• Literature review

In addition to this, a supervised master’s project is taken on an approved topic of the student’s choice. They must address a contemporary problem in the field via a hypothetical experiment, which could theoretically be done in real life.

Employment options

The employment options detailed  here  make for excellent choices. Whether it’s working for as a microbiologist for companies like  Express Microbiology , joining the  Australian Nanotechnology Network  and leading the charge in nanotechnology innovation or undergoing lifesaving research at the  CSIRO , microbiology projects will not find themselves unwanted. In addition to the careers outlined, there are a great deal more to choose from coming into existence all the time. It’s a thriving, ever-changing field.

Scholarships and funding

There are a great deal of funding opportunities available to students of microbiology, both specific to the discipline and more general. Should any of these be unavailable currently, keep an eye on them by saving them to your  PostgradAustralia dashboard , because they tend to return annually. If you don’t know how to apply for these or feel uncomfortable about the process, feel free to consult our guide  here .

• Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships  are worth $69,500 pa, with no subject discipline requirements. This makes them exceptionally competitive. Students of microbiology shouldn’t have much issue arguing the merits of their course in the written statement, however.
• General Sir John Monash Scholarships  are similar, offering $65,000 pa to students planning to commence postgraduate study overseas. Entry requirements are similar to Endeavour, with the same level of competition. They require students to argue for why their overseas institution of choice is worthy of their attention. Again, microbiology is rife with reasons.
• Microbiology students can access the  John Clauscen Murray Postgraduate Scholarship in Bowel Cancer Research , valued at $7,000 pa. These are based on academic merit primarily.
• Those with an interest in agriculture and wine can apply for  ARC Training Centre for Innovative Wine Production  scholarships, valued at roughly $32,304 pa. This is another opportunity geared particularly for students of microbiology, among select other sciences.
• Technology and innovation
• Strengthening Australia-Asia ties
• Enabling positive social change

Students of microbiology can certainly make a case for the first option, as technology and innovation is one of the primary motivators of the field. However, in discovering new cures, medicines and quality of life improvements, positive social change is fostered too.

Prerequisites and selection process

Using the  University of Tasmania  as an example, students are generally able to choose one of two methods of entry.

• Having a bachelor’s degree in a somewhat relevant cognate discipline. A general science degree in any given field, for instance. Entry via this route will result in course completions of about two years full time or four years part. This is due to the need for fundamental, introductory units.
• Having a bachelor’s degree in a directly related discipline. Ideally, this means a Bachelor of Microbiology, or a degree in biology with microbiology as a specialisation. In this case, course completion can be reduced to one and a half years full time or part time equivalent.

Regardless of entry method, applicants must have prior laboratory experience to enter these programs. This means working with cultures or at the very least with the equipment in an unrelated capacity. The greater the relevance to microbiology, however, the stronger the case for entry into the course.

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12 Universities in Australia offering Microbiology degrees and courses

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Are you looking for Microbiology courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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La Trobe University

THE World Ranking: 251

The University of Sydney

THE World Ranking: 60

University of Tasmania (UTAS)

The University of Queensland

THE World Ranking: 70

Flinders University

THE World Ranking: 301

The University of Melbourne

THE World Ranking: 37

University of New England (UNE)

Griffith University

UNSW Sydney - University of New South Wales

THE World Ranking: 84

Monash University

THE World Ranking: 54

Federation University Australia

THE World Ranking: 601

INTI International University and Colleges

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Professor Sucharit Bhakdi MD PhD insights with Dr Trozzi

Medical doctor, award winning microbiologist, and covid era hero: sucharit bhakdi; enlightened and uncensored..

I am very excited to share this with you. Here is my recent conversation with the truly eminent Professor Sucharit Bhakdi. It is loaded with gems involving microbiology, immunology, covid “vaccine” toxicology, history, spirituality, philosophy, current geopolitics, and the especially tragic state of Canada. The great professor is near tears thinking of Canada. This devote Buddhist’s advice regarding what to do with Trudeau, challenges my capacity forgiveness.

Dr Bhakdi’s heroic track record through the covid operation includes facing criminal charges and near imprisonment  with courage and faith. I know you will find this broadly enlightening. Enjoy!

About Professor Sucharit Bhakdi

b. 1. November 1946 in Washington D.C., son of Thai Diplomat Luang Dithakar Bhakdi and Saiyude Dithakar Bhakdi, M.D. (b. Gengradomying). Citizen of Thailand.

School education in Cairo, Egypt and Bangkok, Thailand. Arrival in Germany and commencement of medical studies 1964. MD Bonn University 1970. Postdoctoral at Max-Planck Institute for Immunobiology 1972-76 and The Protein Laboratory, Copenhagen University 1976-77. Staff member, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Giessen University 1977 – 90. Associate Professor 1982 – 90. Professor and Chair, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Johannes-Gutenberg University of Mainz 1990 – 2012 (retirement).

Advisor to Centre of Molecular Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University Thailand from 1990. Editor-in-Chief, Medical Microbiology and Immunology (founded 1887 by Robert Koch) 1990 – 2012.    

Highly cited author of 320 PubMed-listed publications.

Justus-Liebig Award, University of Giessen 1979; Konstanz Medical Award 1980; Award of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology 1987; Dr. Sasse Award, University of Berlin 1988; Ludwig-Schunk Award, Giessen University 1989; Robert Koch Award, Clausthal-Zellerfeld 1989; Guy-Lussac Humboldt Award 1991; Gotthard-Schettler Award 1999; German Society of Angiology Award 1999; Aronson Award Berlin 2001; Hauss-Award for Atherosclerosis Research 2005;  Rudolf-Schönheimer Medal, German Society for Atherosclerosis Research 2009; Order of Merit of the State Rheinland Palatinate 2005.

Sucharit Bhakdi and his wife Karina Reiss, PhD (Associate Professor of Biology, Kiel University) live with their 5-year old son Jonathan Atsadjan in a countryside village near Kiel. After retirement, he worked in Karina’s team as a guest scientist until the university terminated the host contract in December 2020.

Karina and Sucharit have co-authored 16 scientific publications and 3 books. Best-seller “Corona: False-Alarm?” is available in 10 languages. The numbers of views of the educational videos produced since March 2020 are in the 8-digit range.

More Professor Bhakdi material

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Please donate  to Dr Trozzi’s mission and follow our work at DrTrozzi.org ,  Substack ,  on X , and on Telegram . 

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