Engineering powders for the next generation of biologics

This PhD project explores how dry powder carriers can be engineered to deliver low amounts of sensitive biologic drugs by inhalation, combining aerosol science, particle engineering, and computational modelling with industry translation.

The project is embedded in an ARC Linkage collaboration between Macquarie University, the University of Sydney, and Aptar Pharma, a global leader in inhalation drug delivery systems. The research focuses on understanding how dry powder carrier particles can be designed to enable reliable delivery of biologic drugs such as peptides and proteins using next-generation dry powder inhalers.

The student will investigate how particle size, surface chemistry, formulation composition, and dose loading influence aerosolisation, dispersion, and lung deposition. Experimental work will be combined with computational fluid dynamics to provide mechanistic insight into powder behaviour inside inhaler devices.

This project offers a rare opportunity to work at the academic–industry interface on technology directly relevant to future biologic medicines, contributing to inhalers that are more efficient, sustainable, and capable of delivering complex therapeutic molecules. .

It is a full-time opportunity including participation in collaborative laboratory research within the Respiratory Technology Group at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research.

Scholarship details

This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake a direct entry three-year PhD program. Applicants must, at the time of application:

• be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident;
• meet Macquarie University's PhD admission requirements;
• hold a first-class honours degree or equivalent research experience
• not be enrolled in another PhD prorgram

The scholarship comprises:

• a tuition fee offset/scholarship
• a living allowance stipend

The value of each stipend scholarship is $39,700 per annum (full time, indexed) for three years.

Before submitting your application, submit an expression of interest including your:

• CV
• academic transcripts
• a short statement of research interests and relevant experience

If you are interested in applying for this PhD opportunity and would like more information, please contact Professor Daniela Traini at daniela.traini@mq.edu.au.