Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD scholarship within an ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) project commencing mid 2026, based in the School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), under the supervision of Dr Xuyen Le and Prof. Harvey Millar – experts in mitochondrial metabolism and plant respiration.

Mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell and play a central role in coordinating carbon use in plants, yet the regulatory mechanisms that control mitochondrial substrate fluxes and respiratory capacity remain poorly understood. This PhD project will investigate how mitochondrial metabolism and pyruvate transport regulate plant respiration, energy production, and stress response.

The project aims to develop a mechanistic understanding of how variation in mitochondrial pyruvate transport capacity influences respiratory activity, energy balance, and whole-plant performance across development and under changing energy demands. The research will contribute to a broader effort to identify metabolic constraints on plant productivity and explore strategies for improving energy-use efficiency.

The PhD candidate will work within a supportive research environment at UWA, while developing an independent research program aligned with the overarching aims of the DECRA project.

Project aims include:

Understanding how mitochondrial pyruvate transport and metabolism is regulated in plants. Investigating the relationship between mitochondrial substrate transport, respiration, and ATP production. Exploring how mitochondrial metabolism adapts to developmental and environmental demands. Contributing fundamental knowledge relevant to improving crop energy efficiency and performance.

Applicants must meet UWA’s requirements for admission to a Higher Degree by Research.

The successful candidate will have significant scope to shape their PhD project within the DECRA framework. The research will be primarily based at UWA, with opportunities for national and international collaboration.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree with Honours and/or a Master’s degree in plant science, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong interest in plant metabolism and mitochondrial function, capacity for critical thinking and organisation, good written and verbal communication skills.

In the first instance, please email Curriculum vitae (CV) to xuyen.le@uwa.edu.au with the subject line: “2026 Application for a PhD Scholarship – DECRA Project”

Dr Xuyen Le

School of Molecular Sciences

The University of Western Australia

Email: xuyen.le@uwa.edu.au