The University of Adelaide logo

International Students

Phd and masters research degrees in australia.

Are you looking to further your knowledge and become an expert in your field of interest? Start your greatest adventure with a Higher Degree by Research at the University of Adelaide.

Ranked in the top 100 of universities globally, at the University of Adelaide you will be involved in discovery, innovation and cutting-edge research. Enjoy an outstanding research environment under the wing of top-ranked researchers and establish life-long connections with industry and like-minded students. Start building your future now.

Find your degree

There is an option for every discipline. Explore our Masters and Doctorate degrees by research.

Industry opportunities

Industry opportunities

Turn theory into practice with a research internship and industry-engaged higher degree research program (HDR). Develop expertise in your chosen field and extend your professional contacts and networks.

Programs are open to applicants who are eligible for onshore study and meet the University of Adelaide’s English Language Requirements at the time of the application.

International joint PhDs

International joint PhDs

Widen your research connections and study at two high quality universities within Australia or between different countries.

You will spend time at each university and receive a single doctoral degree jointly awarded by both institutions.

Research connections

Students standing out the front of the startup hub at lot fourteen

Australian Institute for Machine Learning

The University of Adelaide’s Australian Institute for Machine Learning is the largest university-based research group in machine learning in Australia. Research areas include agriculture, space, medicine, transport, defence, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing.

SAHMRI building at night

The University of Adelaide is a founding member of SAHMRI, South Australia’s independent, not-for-profit health and medical research institute. Research areas include clinical trials, genetics, Aboriginal health, public health and medical imaging.

International scholarships

The University of Adelaide offers a range of strategic and merit-based scholarships for outstanding Higher Degree by Research applicants.

International student resources

Dr Withawat Withayachumnankul

Why study a research degree with us?

The infrastructure and supports for research students are excellent. I have enjoyed access to a range of services and courses created to promote career development. The staffs are friendly and very helpful.

Dr Withawat Withayachumnankul

Want to learn more?

Call us:   +61 8 8313 7335  or 1800 407 527 (Toll free)

Future Students

Current student enquiries, make history.

  • Marketing Materials
  • Institution Resources

Change Language

Study in Adelaide

  • Institutions
  • Fields of study
  • Scholarships
  • Requirements of study
  • Support for students
  • Student exchange

Work in Adelaide

  • Major Industries in Adelaide
  • Part-time and casual jobs
  • Career and graduate opportunities
  • Volunteering
  • Work rights
  • For employers
  • Employment toolkit

Life in Adelaide

  • Discover Adelaide
  • Cost of living
  • Accommodation in Adelaide
  • Migration opportunities
  • Prepare for your arrival
  • Bringing your family
  • Health, safety and inclusion
  • Student stories
  • What's Happening
  • 094498B Doctor of Philosophy Public Health

Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) - Public Health

Entry requirements.

To gain admission into a Doctor of Philosophy, you’ll need one of the following: a relevant University of Adelaide Honours degree (or equivalent), with at least a second-class Honours (upper division); a postgraduate coursework degree which contains a significant research component and meets the minimum GPA requirements; a relevant University of Adelaide Master of Philosophy (or equivalent).

English language proficiency requirements

IELTS (ACADEMIC) - Overall Score 6.5 All Other Bands 6.0

TOEFL (INTERNET BASED TEST) - Total score 79 Writing 21 Speaking 18 Listening & Reading 13

PEARSON TEST of ENGLISH (ACADEMIC) - Overall Score 58 All Other Bands 50

C1 ADVANCED - Overall Score 176 All Other Bands 169

You can apply for admission at any time throughout the year.

Course Details

The Doctor of Philosophy is the University’s flagship research award and is the standard pre-requisite for a career in research or academia. The PhD involves three – four years of research for a full-time candidate or the equivalent in half-time candidature. As one of the most highly research-intensive and respected universities in Australia and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, The University of Adelaide is the smart choice for your research program. The University is committed to providing unique opportunities for graduates and researchers who are recognised as worldwide leaders for their vision and capacity to address global research challenges.

Career Readiness

The PhD is a demonstration of a graduate’s ability to conceptualise and implement an independent program of research, manage a project, organise resources, work with other people and communicate effectively both orally and in writing at a high level. Accordingly, a wide range of career opportunities are available to PhD graduates. The traditional pathways are to research and academic careers, however, increasingly, graduates progress into other professional areas, including management.

Potential careers: Research Manager, Research Scientist, Research and Education

Degree Structure

A PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by the student, their supervisors and Head of School. The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as a result of a new theory. In addition, PhD students complete a minimum of 120 hours of relevant professional development activities through the University's Career and Research Skills Training (CaRST) program. Progress through the degree is tracked through the completion of a number of key milestones. These milestones provide an opportunity for the University to review progress and ensure that candidates are well supported to complete their degree in a timely manner.

The School of Agriculture, Food and Wine conducts world-leading scientific research related to agriculture, food and wine.

In collaboration with local, national and global partners, the School delivers innovative options and opportunities to benefit the agricultural, food and wine industries, consumers and the environment.

Research areas:

  • Biometry & Bioinformatics
  • Entomology & Plant Pathology
  • Farming Systems
  • Food & Nutrition
  • Plant Biology & Biochemistry
  • Plant Genetics, Genomics & Breeding
  • Soil Science
  • Viticulture & Horticulture
  • Wine Science

Level of Study

Duration 3 years

CRICOS Course Code 094498B

English Requirements IELTS Score UG 6.5

Annual Tuition AUD$53,500.00

More information is available at the institution's website

Disclaimer: The listings provided on the StudyAdelaide.com website are for information and promotional purposes only. The information, content and material provided in the listings is the sole responsibility of each education provider. While every care has been taken in preparing the information published on this website, StudyAdelaide does not guarantee the accuracy or currency of the content.

University of Adelaide home page

Researcher Profiles

Daniel Thomas

Associate Professor Daniel Thomas

Associate Professor Haematology

Adelaide Medical School

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences

Eligible to supervise Masters and PhD, but is currently at capacity - email supervisor to discuss availability.

With unique training experience at the Stanford University School of Medicine, Daniel Thomas is a clinical haematologist and cancer scientist whose goals are to develop new drugs and better outcomes for the treatment of rare and hard-to-treat cancers and lead a creative and innovative cancer research laboratory. The core values in Dan's lab are Creativity (not being afraid to try something new), Compassion (identifying with cancer patients and their carers to learn what really matters) and Generosity (sharing new technologies to other researchers to move the field forward).

  • My Research
  • Publications
  • Grants and Funding
  • Supervision
  • Professional Activities

Dan is currently Program Director for Blood Cancers at SAHMRI and leads the Myeloid Metabolism Lab led by Dan Thomas is located on Level 5 of the main SAHMRI building (Precision Medicine, Cancer Theme, adjacent to the Royal Adelaide Hospital and 10 minutes from Adelaide International airport). The lab is focused on interplay between cancer, metabolism and epigenetics.  Dr Daniel Thomas is a clinical haematologist and pathologist whose goals in research are to develop new drugs for the treatment of cancer using expanded human myeloid progenitors, mass spectrometry and computational tools. He has had post-doctoral training experience at the Stanford School of Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, led by Irving Weissman and direct mentoring from Professor Ravindra Majeti (discovery of CD47 and pre-leukaemic stem cells). Key equipment accessible from Dan's laboratory including Seahorse Xfe96, Vistaflux software with Agilent 6546 Q-ToF metabolomics solution, BRAVO liquid handing robot, human metabolome shRNA bar-coded library, 10X single cell transcriptomics, ARIA FACS sorter & serial blood cancer patient samples.  If you are passionate about thinking outside the square to improve the treatment of cancer, please contact Dr Thomas about potential student internships.

The Thomas Lab has a strong track record in finding new druggable targets in cancer and predicting mutations that respond to specific targeted therapies as well as repurposing old drugs for new uses in cancer. Some of the discoveries that Dr Thomas has contributed to are already in the clinic or are under clinical investigation, including a humanized monoclonal antibody for the treatment of myelofibrosis  ( EMBO Reports , 2022 ), JAK2 mutations ( Blood Cancer Discovery, 2023 ) and precision dietetics for IDH1 mutated cancers ( Cancer Discovery , 2022 ). Dan leads an international biannual conference, New Directions in Leukaemia Research (2022 in Brisbane, 2024 in Adelaide and 2026) that brings scientists and doctors together to discover new treatments for blood cancers and leukaemia. Dan's lab is leading the first precision medicine trial nationwide for a rare and poor prognosis blood cancer called CMML, chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia using monoclonal antibodies and high dose Vitamin C https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=380941&isReview=true . Recently, members of his team led by Professor Hiwase described a new form autoimmune disease linked to IDH1 mutations in cancer ( Blood, 2024 ).

Other research contributions include (i)  mutation-specific drug targets for acute myeloid leukaemia (EZH2 for AML with  WT1  mutation,  Blood  2015; Bcl2 as a target for cancer with  IDH1  mutation,  Nature Med  2016; ROS activation for AML with  NPM1  mutation,  Leukemia  2014; ACC1 for AML with  IDH1  mutation,  Nature Com , 2017), (ii) prediction of 145,891 synthetic partners for 3,120 recurrent mutations for 12 cancer types ( Leukemia  2019, first author and co-inventor  Nature Com , 2017, (iii) pre-clinical development of a biological therapy (humanized monoclonal antibody directed against CD123 Cell Stem Cell , 2009,  Leukemia  2014) (iv) pre-clinical development of a biological therapy for myelofibrosis ( Science Adv 2018), (v) repurposing medicines for treatment of leukaemia ( JCI 2020, Scientific Reports 2019, J of Hepatology 2020) and (iv) translational experience in the Stanford Alliance for Innovative Medicines program.

Dr Thomas has been awarded a number of prizes for his work including the CSL Centenary Fellowship ($1.25M), K99-R00 Pathway to Independence award by the National Cancer Institute, NHMRC PhD award, Albert Bakie Medal, Douglas Hardy Prize, Nimmo Prize and CJ Martin Biomedical Fellowship, The Hospital Research Foundation 2020, 2 Ideas grants NHMRC 2020, MRFF funding 2020 for a precision medicine trial " Precision Medicine for Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukaemia: Phase II Trial Studying the Efficacy of Lenzilumab or High Dose Ascorbate plus Azacitidine Based on Molecular Profiling Compared to Risk-matched Historical Cohort " . Dr Thomas received competitive grant funding for the 2020, 2022 and 2023 Translational Research Program/ Synergistic Team Awards from United States Leukemia & Lymphoma Society co-funded by The Leukaemia Foundation and Snowdome.

The over-arching goal of Dan’s research is to find novel mutation-specific drug targets for somatic mutations, especially in poor prognosis and difficult to treat cancer types, using leukemia as a test bed. The lab has unique skills in developing humanized in vivo models for AML, isolation and testing of pre-leukemia stem cells and bioinformatic algorithms together with key academic and industry networks.

Links to more information about The Myeloid Metabolism Lab: -

https://aacrjournals.org/cancerdiscovery/article/doi/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-21-0218/710553/Dysregulated-lipid-synthesis-by-oncogenic-IDH1

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-25/researchers-discover-potential-treatment-for-rare-cancer/100938498

https://www.leukaemia.org.au/stories/an-antibody-for-myelofibrosis-thats-a-true-discovery/

https://www.leukaemia.org.au/stories/a-new-era-of-medicine/ 

https://www.snowdome.org.au/science/prof-ravi-majeti-and-dr-daniel-thomas-are-uncovering-new-methods-to-switch-off-and-destroy-cancer-cells/

https://www.adelaide.edu.au/newsroom/news/list/2020/06/29/162-million-for-rare-cancer-research

https://www.cslfellowships.com.au/fellows-archive/associate-professor-daniel-thomas-bio

https://ndlr.com.au/

Appointments

Awards and achievements, postgraduate training, certifications, research interests, book chapters.

Dr Thomas enjoys teaching and supervising 3rd year science students, Masters and PhD students in formal and informal sessions including regular Cancer Metabolism and Epigenetics journal club meetings at Level 4 SAHMRI Boardroom 2.30pm on Mondays

Current Higher Degree by Research Supervision (University of Adelaide)

Other supervision activities, committee memberships, review, assessment, editorial and advice.

  • Position: Associate Professor Haematology
  • Phone: 81284317
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Campus: North Terrace
  • Building: Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences, floor 6
  • Org Unit: Medical Specialties

Connect With Me

university of adelaide phd medicine

External Profiles

university of adelaide phd medicine

university of adelaide phd medicine

Degree Finder

Bachelor of Medical Studies

  • N/A Guaranteed Entry Score - ATAR
  • International Entry Requirements

Start Dates

Put your passion for healing into action

Medicine is intellectually rewarding, challenging and inspiring. It requires critical problem-solving, teamwork and integrity.

Medical practitioners are passionately interested in wellbeing, and work to protect and promote the health of individuals and communities. They are dedicated to alleviating pain and suffering, and caring for vulnerable people.

What will you do?

Our Bachelor of Medical Studies provides the foundation knowledge and skills needed to excel in health care. Learning in partnership with outstanding clinicians in our state-of-the-art Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences building, you will:

  • work in small groups to address scenario-based problems relating to common and important individual, community, Indigenous and global health issues
  • gain valuable exposure to real-world clinical practice and develop your own safe and effective clinical skills in cutting-edge simulation facilities
  • investigate the social determinants of health and health behaviours
  • learn to evaluate the health status of individuals and populations
  • acquire a solid foundation in research skills and evidence-based care
  • learn collaboratively in interprofessional teams.

You will also gain a deep understanding of how our health care system works. This includes from the ‘consumer’ perspective; how patients interact with various health services and providers.

Where could it take you?

This is the first part of our medicine program; upon successful completion, you’ll gain direct entry into our  Doctor of Medicine . Together, these degrees will qualify you to practise medicine anywhere in Australia and throughout most of the world. The Bachelor of Medical Studies functions as an exit pathway only for students who do not go on to complete the entire six-year program. The Medical program at the University of Adelaide has a six-year full-time duration which leads to the awards of Bachelor of Medical Studies and Doctor of Medicine.  Entry to the Doctor of Medicine is based on completion of the Bachelor of Medical Studies at the University of Adelaide. SATAC CODE 354552 Standard (non-bonded) 354553 Bonded Medical Program (BMP)

Hear from our students  

  • Ranked #71 globally for Clinical and Health*
  • High-tech simulation in accredited facilities
  • Ranked #92 globally for Life Sciences and Medicine^

* Times Higher Education World Rankings by Subject, 2024.

^QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023. 

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program. I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

Admissions information

Selection Criteria

2023 admissions data for school leavers, admissions transparency data, student profile, ready to apply.

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

International applicants

English language requirements, academic entry requirements, fees and scholarships.

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program. I am a:

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

More information on Student Contribution Amounts .

Scholarships

These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.

Find a Scholarship .

More information on International Student tuition fees .

The University is committed to providing educational opportunities for international students and has a range of scholarships available.

For further details, please visit: International Scholarships .

In addition to scholarships provided by the University, there may be other scholarships available funded by industry and generous donors. These are available to both new students and current students. When looking at those available, take the time to discover what opportunities may suit you or the degree you are studying.

To discover more: Scholarships .

Career Readiness

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Industry Placement

  • AHPRA student registration (undertaken on the student's behalf)
  • criminal history clearance and a national police clearance
  • immunisation 
  • prescribed communicable infections screening
  • tuberculosis screening.

Professional Accreditation

Potential careers.

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Health Educator;  Health Officer;  Laboratory Manager;  Medical Scientist;  Medical Technician

Degree Structure

Academic program rules.

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Related Degrees

  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences

  • Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences (Advanced)
  • Bachelor of Nursing
  • Bachelor of Oral Health
  • Bachelor of Psychological Science
  • Honours Degree of Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences
  • Doctor of Medicine

Testimonial

I chose this degree because it offers such a broad range of subjects, so I could explore a variety of fields to find what sparks my interest.

Opens video dialog

Annabelle Dickens

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer .

Last updated: Tuesday, 7 May 2024

Study at Adelaide

Further enquiries

university of adelaide phd medicine

University of Adelaide homepage

Future Students

Postgraduate medicine at the university of adelaide.

Can I enter the Doctor of Medicine as a postgraduate student?

No, the Doctor of Medicine is a combined degree with the Bachelor of Medical Studies .

Was this answer helpful?

Answers others found helpful.

  • Medicine, Dentistry and Oral Health Admissions Guides
  • Medicine program structure and curriculum
  • My selection rank isn’t high enough
  • Bonded and Non-bonded Medical Places
  • Internships for medicine students

Search the knowledge base

Future Student Enquiries

Level 4 Kenneth Wills Building North Terrace Campus

The University of Adelaide South Australia 5005 Australia

More information

The University of Adelaide | 150 Years

Job Opportunities

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (A/B) (with PhD)

Job no: 514060 Work type: Fixed term - Full-time Campus: Adelaide Categories: Level A, Level B, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology

Post-Doctoral Fellow (A or B) with PhD in Multi-Object Tracking and Robotics

( Level A) - $98,574 to $105,611 per annum plus an employer contribution of up to 17% superannuation will apply.

(Level B) - $111,031 per annum plus an employer contribution of up to 17% superannuation will apply.

Fixed term position for 2 years (possibility of extension to 3 years).

Build your research career within the School of Computer Science and contribute to an innovative project in Multi-Object Tracking and Robotics.

Be part of a research team investigating new multi-drone trajectory planning for multiple target tracking with a distributed sensor network .

This is an opportunity for a high-achieving postdoctoral researcher to join a world-leading research group in Computer Security and Machine Learning as well as Computer Science department ranked 48 th in the world and The University of Adelaide ranked in the top 1% of Universities worldwide. Notably, Adelaide is ranked the third most liveable city in the world and the most liveable city in Australia in 2021.

The University of Adelaide is a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight research-intensive universities and ranks inside the world’s top 100. In the Australian Government’s 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment, 100% of University of Adelaide research was rated world-class or above, with work in 41 distinct fields achieving the highest possible rating of ‘well above world-standard’. This included Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing, and Electrical and Electronic Engineering. 

The project will involve new inter-disciplinary collaborations with researchers from Industry in South Australia and interstate collaborations with institutions involved in multi-target tracking. This should provide significant benefits, such as new theoretical frameworks with provable performance guarantees for multi-drone tasking involving tracking multiple targets and exposure to working with and forging new relationships with Industry interested in multi-target tracking solutions and applications.

The discoveries to come out of the project will significantly increase our understanding of planning under uncertainty for multi-target tracking. This project represents a unique opportunity to produce future expertise for the Australian workforce, not only in university research, but also in industry.

The successful applicant will develop innovative multi-drone planning for tracking algorithms for use in real-world applications under uncertain, dynamic and noisy measurement environments. 

To be successful at Level A you will need:

  • Signal Processing/Control
  • Path Planning/Trajectory Planning
  • Multi-Target Tracking/Multi-Object Tracking,
  • Bayesian Filtering, Radom Finite Set filters or closely related multi-target tracking approaches
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to tailor communication skills when interacting with students, researchers, professional staff and external stakeholders.
  • Fluency in written and spoken English, with an ability to communicate scientific ideas to an expert audience, both orally and written.
  • A strong work ethic, and the ability to work well independently, and as a member of a broader team, including with industrial partners.
  • Programming experience and expertise in Python and/or Julia and/or Matlab and/or C++.

In addition to the above, to be successful for Level B you will also need:

  Experience in state estimation, target tracking, and data fusion algorithms such as Kalman filtering, Particle filtering, and Multiple-hypothesis tracking.

  • A strong track record of high quality research as evidenced by publications in leading journals and at conferences.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and development with limited supervision.
  • The ability to work as a member of a broader team, including with industrial partners.

Enjoy an outstanding career environment

The University of Adelaide is a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs—including significant industry, government and community collaborations—offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long and fulfilling career.

It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. And our work's cutting-edge nature—not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour—provides a constant source of inspiration.

Our core values are honesty, respect, fairness, discovery and excellence. And our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity. We are firm believers that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills of our staff.

In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.

Learn more at: adelaide.edu.au/jobs

Your faculty's broader role

The Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology is a multidisciplinary hub of cutting-edge teaching and research. Many of its academic staff are world leaders in their fields and graduates are highly regarded by employers. The Faculty actively partners with innovative industries to solve problems of global significance. 

Learn more at:  set.adelaide.edu.au

If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.

Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.

Applications close 11:55pm, 2 June 2024.

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:

Damith Ranasinghe

E:  [email protected]

You'll find a full selection criteria below:  (If no links appear, try viewing on another device)

The University of Adelaide is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Female applicants, people with a disability and/or and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application. 

Download the Position Description Apply now

Advertised: 01 May 2024 12:00 AM Applications close: 02 Jun 2024 11:55 PM

Refer a friend

Back to search results

Search results

Current opportunities.

Powered by PageUp

Filter results

  • Fixed term - Full-time 1
  • Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology 1

For all enquiries please contact the Human Resources Service Centre.

university of adelaide phd medicine

More information

Life moves fast - mid-year applications now open

  • Education Home
  • Medical Education Technology Support
  • Graduate Medical Education
  • Medical Scientist Training Program
  • Public Health Sciences Program
  • Continuing Medical Education
  • Clinical Performance Education Center
  • Center for Excellence in Education
  • Research Home
  • Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Cell Biology
  • Microbiology, Immunology, & Cancer Biology (MIC)
  • Molecular Physiology & Biological Physics
  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Public Health Sciences
  • Office for Research
  • Clinical Research
  • Clinical Trials Office
  • Funding Opportunities
  • Grants & Contracts
  • Research Faculty Directory
  • Cancer Center
  • Cardiovascular Research Center
  • Carter Immunology Center
  • Center for Behavioral Health & Technology
  • Center for Brain Immunology & Glia
  • Center for Diabetes Technology
  • Center for Immunity, Inflammation & Regenerative Medicine
  • Center for Public Health Genomics
  • Center for Membrane & Cell Physiology
  • Center for Research in Reproduction
  • Myles H. Thaler Center for AIDS & Human Retrovirus Research
  • Child Health Research Center (Pediatrics)
  • Division of Perceptual Studies
  • Research News: The Making of Medicine
  • Core Facilities
  • Virginia Research Resources Consortium
  • Center for Advanced Vision Science
  • Charles O. Strickler Transplant Center
  • Keck Center for Cellular Imaging
  • Institute of Law, Psychiatry & Public Policy
  • Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia
  • Clinical Home
  • Anesthesiology
  • Dermatology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Family Medicine
  • Neurosurgery
  • Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Otolaryngology
  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
  • Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial, & Oral Health
  • Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences
  • Radiation Oncology
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging
  • UVA Health: Patient Care
  • Diversity Home
  • Diversity Overview
  • Student Resources
  • GME Trainee Resources
  • Faculty Resources
  • Community Resources

George Bloom, PhD, Discusses Cellular Basis of Alzheimer’s on Hoos in Stem Podcast

May 7, 2024 by [email protected]

UVA STEM podcast with Ken Ono

Bloom is a renowned cell biologist whose longtime focus has been deciphering the cellular processes at the heart of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, such as the buildup of amyloid-β peptides and tau protein tangles.

Listen to the podcast  here or access through other standard platforms like Spotify. The podcast series is hosted by Ken Ono, the Marvin Rosenblum Professor of Mathematics and STEM advisor to the University of Virginia provost.

Filed Under: Media Highlights

  • Submit News/Event
  • Subscribe to News
  • Call for Nominations
  • Dean's Message
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Honors & Awards
  • Media Highlights
  • Philanthropy
  • MyAucklandUni
  • Student Services Online
  • Class search
  • Student email
  • Change my password
  • MyCDES+ (job board)
  • Course outlines
  • Learning essentials
  • Libraries and Learning Services
  • Forms, policies and guidelines
  • New students
  • Enrol in courses
  • Campus card
  • Postgraduate students
  • Summer school
  • AskAuckland
  • Student Hubs
  • Student IT Hub
  • Student Health and Counselling
  • Harassment, bullying, sexual assault and other violence
  • Complaints and incidents
  • Career Development and Employability Services (CDES)
  • Ratonga Hauātanga Tauira | Student Disability Services (SDS)
  • Rainbow support
  • Covid-19 information for our community
  • Emergency information
  • Report concerns, incidents and hazards
  • Health and safety topics
  • Staff email
  • Staff intranet
  • ResearchHub
  • PeopleSoft HR
  • Forms register
  • Careers at the University
  • Education Office
  • Early childhood centres
  • University Calendar
  • Opportunities
  • Update your details
  • Make a donation
  • Publications
  • Photo galleries
  • Video and audio
  • Career services
  • Virtual Book Club
  • Library services
  • Alumni benefits
  • Office contact details
  • Alumni and friends on social media
  • No events scheduled for today You have no more events scheduled for today
  • Next event:
  • Show {0} earlier events Show {0} earlier event
  • Event_Time Event_Name Event_Description
  • My Library Account
  • Change Password
  • Edit Profile
  • My GPA Grade Point Average About your GPA GPA not available Why can't I see my GPA?
  • My Progress
  • Points Required Completed points My Progress Progress not available All done!
  • Student hubs
  • Health and counselling
  • All support
  • Health, safety and well-being

Breadcrumbs List.

  • News and opinion

How a sister's fear of needles became a PhD success

07 May 2024

Auckland Bioengineering Institute , Health and medicine , Graduation

When Michael Hoffman graduates with his PhD this month, he knows his research is part of a potential revolution in how we take blood from reluctant patients. But the story behind it is far more personal.

Michael Hoffman wears his PhD regalia in front of greenery

It’s a vivid memory: Michael Hoffman as an undergraduate helping support his younger sister when she is given a blood test. She is a 16-year-old with Down Syndrome and autism, and faced with an approaching needle, is frightened and recalcitrant. It takes more than one person to hold her down while the phlebotomist takes the sample.

It is not a fun experience, but for the young student it turns out to be life-changing.

A year or so later, during his final year at the University of Auckland where he was specialising in biomedical engineering, Michael started talking to Professor Andrew Taberner from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) about the latter's research into using needle-free jet injection technology to deliver drugs directly into the skin.

Andrew Taberner's jet injectors created a hair-thin jet of fluid travelling at 200 metres per second and able to deliver drugs though skin and tissue.

Michael thought about his sister and how difficult it is to get blood from someone who is uncooperative. The problem, if you are using a needle, is that you have to keep the needle still and inside someone’s vein for the whole length of the procedure.

“I had reflected at the time that there had to be a better way to get information from blood. And hearing about Andrew’s jet injection technology got me excited about potential applications for quick, needle-free blood sampling.”

Michael Hoffman and his mother and father in front of celebratory balloons

In December last year, Michael successfully defended his PhD thesis, “Lancet and needle-free blood insulin therapy using a controllable jet injector.”

Starting with the idea that for needle-averse diabetics it might be easier to use jet injection for taking blood for glucose measurement (as well as for delivering insulin), Michael looked at ways to increase the amount of blood you could get out using this method.

In particular, he studied using a partial vacuum and found that could significantly increase the volume of blood.

I’m proud to have been able to demonstrate you can use jet injection technology to collect blood.

Michael Hoffman Auckland Bioengineering Institute PhD graduate

“My human trial was a success and I’m proud to have been able to demonstrate you can use jet injection technology to collect blood that could be used for glucose concentration measurement.” 

More has to be done to bring it to real world use, Michael says, but it’s a good first step.

“Hopefully with the improvement of analysis techniques and jet injections, we will be able to get more blood and it will indicate more,” he says.

And the examiners were impressed too, with one saying his work was “of the highest quality I have seen from a PhD thesis”, and “commending the student for their work”. 

Michael now works as a Professional Teaching Fellow for the Department of Engineering Science but is keen to be involved in jet injection research in the future.

Michael Hoffman is one of 13 ABI students graduating this month – 10 with PhDs and three with masters degrees.

Media contact

Nikki Mandow | Research communications M: 021 174 3142 E:  nikki.mandow@auckland.ac.nz

Related links

  • Needle-free anaesthetic for skin graft surgery
  • Technology that allows for needle-free glucose monitoring

IMAGES

  1. Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building

    university of adelaide phd medicine

  2. About the University of Adelaide

    university of adelaide phd medicine

  3. University of Adelaide

    university of adelaide phd medicine

  4. The University of Adelaide

    university of adelaide phd medicine

  5. University Of Adelaide Phd

    university of adelaide phd medicine

  6. The University of Adelaide

    university of adelaide phd medicine

VIDEO

  1. Research Tuesdays: 3 Minute Thesis

  2. Annual Florey Public Lecture: Changing conversation from 'chronic disease' to 'chronic health'

  3. Study Honours at Flinders

  4. Treatment of Heart Failure in Diabetic Patients

  5. Health and Medical Sciences

  6. Вебінар "Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement Pilot" 29.03.2024

COMMENTS

  1. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medicine

    The PhD in Medicine program involves two to four years of research for a full time candidate or the equivalent in half time candidature. Candidates will develop the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality to make a significant original contribution to knowledge in the discipline. ... The University ...

  2. Research

    At any one time there are over 500 students enrolled in our honours, masters and PhD programs, all striving to transform lives by improving human health. Here you will enjoy a stimulating research environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences building and multifunctional Ray Last ...

  3. Research

    The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is our flagship research award and is the standard qualification for a research career or academic position. It is a stepping stone to a range of career opportunities and involves three to four years of research for a full-time candidate. ... THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE 5005 AUSTRALIA. Authorised by: Executive Dean ...

  4. Medicine

    By studying medicine at the University of Adelaide you'll become part of a rich history of world-class health education and research that stretches back over 135 years. During that time, we've educated 24 health-focused Rhodes Scholars and been associated with four health-related Nobel Laureates.

  5. PDF Medicine Admissions Guide

    Studies and Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Adelaide, you must achieve: • Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) including any applicable adjustment factors: 90 or above • International Baccalaureate score: 34* or above or the interstate/ overseas equivalent • Grade Point Average (GPA): 5.0 or

  6. School of Biomedicine

    The School of Biomedicine team is made up of passionate, highly skilled health professionals, academics, and researchers. You will also learn from our extended team of clinical titleholders - medical professionals from a wide range of specialist areas. Learn more about our staff.

  7. PhD and Masters Research Degrees In Australia

    The University of Adelaide's Australian Institute for Machine Learning is the largest university-based research group in machine learning in Australia. Research areas include agriculture, space, medicine, transport, defence, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. Learn more.

  8. Postgraduate (Masters) Research Degrees

    Find out more about applying for a Postgraduate research degree. Delve into the world of research and contribute to new discoveries. Explore postgraduate research degrees at the University of Adelaide.

  9. Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine)

    The PhD involves three - four years of research for a full-time candidate or the equivalent in half-time candidature. As one of the most highly research-intensive and respected universities in Australia and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, The University of Adelaide is the smart choice for your research program.

  10. University of Adelaide Medicine PhD Projects, Programmes ...

    We have 1 University of Adelaide Medicine PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships. Show more Show all . More Details . Development of tumor on a chip models for novel therapy evaluation. University of Adelaide School of Chemical Engineering. Project. Cancer is a complex and multifaceted disease, and the development of effective treatments ...

  11. Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery

    The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry. Graduate Attributes The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.

  12. Associate Professor Daniel Thomas

    Stanford University School of Medicine: 2019 - ongoing: Myeloid Metabolism Lab Leader and Program Leader Blood Cancer, Precision Medicine Theme ... Dean's Commendation for Doctoral Thesis Excellence for PhD: The University of Adelaide: Australia-2012: Fellowship: CJ Martin Overseas Biomedical Fellowship: NHMRC: Australia: $375,828: 2011:

  13. David WILSON

    Epideiology, Medicine, Public Health | ResearchGate, the professional network for scientists. ... David H Wilson; David H Wilson. University of Adelaide · School of Medicine. PhD. Contact ...

  14. Hubertus JERSMANN

    Hubertus Jersmann currently works at the Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide. Hubertus does research in Sleep Medicine, Respiratory Medicine and Pulmonology. ... PhD. Contact. Connect ...

  15. Patrick HUGHES

    Patrick HUGHES | Cited by 3,312 | of University of Adelaide, Adelaide | Read 83 publications | Contact Patrick HUGHES

  16. Joanne YOUNG

    I am a colorectal cancer researcher based at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide, South Australia. The aim of our program is to decrease the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality and ...

  17. PDF Medicine Admissions Guide

    Medicine graduates from the University of Adelaide are now working in a diverse range of fields or have begun additional study in specialisations such as psychiatry, ophthalmology or paediatrics. Potential career paths will become apparent as students progress through the degree. Bachelor of Medical Studies and Doctor of Medicine 2

  18. Bachelor of Medical Studies

    The Medical program at the University of Adelaide has a six-year full-time duration which leads to the awards of Bachelor of Medical Studies and Doctor of Medicine. Entry to the Doctor of Medicine is based on completion of the Bachelor of Medical Studies at the University of Adelaide. SATAC CODE. 354552 Standard (non-bonded)

  19. Postgraduate Medicine at the University of Adelaide

    Search Knowledge Base | Future Students | University of Adelaide. No, the Doctor of Medicine is a combined degree with the Bachelor of Medical Studies.. Whilst students who are studying the Adelaide medical program can elect to exit at the end of their third year with a Bachelor of Medical Studies, this is an exit point only.The Doctor of Medicine is not available as an entry point.

  20. Research Space Policy » Veterinary Research and Graduate Studies

    RESEARCH SPACE POLICYEffective: December 1, 2023 Responsible Office: UFCVM Office for Research and Graduate Studies Reason for Policy: Research is a critical mission and access to appropriate research space is one of the key drivers for success. To optimize the effective use of research space, support the diversified needs of our researchers, and sustain growth…

  21. Undergraduate

    Post-Doctoral Fellow (A or B) with PhD in Multi-Object Tracking and Robotics (Level A) ... group in Computer Security and Machine Learning as well as Computer Science department ranked 48 th in the world and The University of Adelaide ranked in the top 1% of Universities worldwide. Notably, Adelaide is ranked the third most liveable city in the ...

  22. Six receive Graduate Medical Education Awards for 2024

    Six receive Graduate Medical Education Awards for 2024. Honorees are 4 faculty and 2 staff members from the departments of Anesthesiology, Neurology, Radiology and Surgery, and the Office of Graduate Medical Education. April 17, 2024. Author | Kevin C. Bergquist

  23. George Bloom, PhD, Discusses Cellular Basis of Alzheimer's on Hoos in

    Alzheimer's pioneer and UVA faculty George Bloom, PhD, was interviewed for Hoos in STEM podcast, episode 22, about understanding of Alzheimer's mechanisms, the current state of treatment, recent advances in diagnostic technology, and the future of research into neurodegenerative disorders.. Bloom is a renowned cell biologist whose longtime focus has been deciphering the cellular processes ...

  24. Brian Murphy, PhD

    Brian Murphy, MSc, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at Drexel University College of Medicine. He is the pharmacology thread director in both the Foundations and Frontiers as well as the Human Disease medical school courses curriculum at the Center City Philadelphia campus.

  25. How a sister's fear of needles became a PhD success

    A year or so later, during his final year at the University of Auckland where he was specialising in biomedical engineering, Michael started talking to Professor Andrew Taberner from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) about the latter's research into using needle-free jet injection technology to deliver drugs directly into the skin.

  26. Spotlight on New Faculty: Dr. Pedro L. J. Monteiro

    The Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences is pleased to announce the addition of new FARMS faculty member Dr. Pedro Monteiro. Pedro L. J. Monteiro, BVM, PhD, MS, MBA - Assistant Professor Dr. Pedro Monteiro, Assistant Professor in FARMS, earned his bachelor's degree in Veterinary Medicine at the Federal Rural University of Pernaubuco, Brazil, his…