2026 Quantum Algorithms for mRNA Structure Optimization Scholarship at La Trobe University

As an applicant, you will be at the forefront of the emerging field of mRNA Science. The design of mRNA sequences for vaccines and therapies requires precise optimisation of their stability and structure, both of which play a crucial role in their functionality and efficacy. While mRNA technology holds immense potential, optimizing sequences remains a challenging problem due to the limitations of classical algorithms. These methods often struggle with the complexity and scale of accurately predicting mRNA secondary structures. This pilot research project aims to leverage quantum computing to address these challenges, focusing on developing novel quantum algorithms to enhance mRNA sequence design

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirments
• Interview Process
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineNovember 8, 2025
• Value$35,000 per annum
• Study LevelMasters
• SponsorLa Trobe University
• City to studyVictoria
• School to studyLa Trobe University
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• An industry-partnered Master's by Research stipend scholarship schoalrship for two years, with a value of $35,000 p.a. to support your living costs
• A tuition fee-relief scholarship for up to two years
• A domestic conference travel allowance
• Opportunities to work with a world-leading company in the mRNA field
• Opportunities to work with ACAMI, a leading research centre at the intersection of AI and medical innovation
• Access to Australia's first NVIDIA DGX H200 supercomputer to conduct your work

Requirements

• Meet the entrance requirements for the Master of Science (research)
• Not be receiving another scholarship greater than 75 per cent of the stipend rate for the same purpose
• Have demonstrated experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, bioinformatics, biostatistics, or big-data analytics
• Have proficiency in coding languages such as R or Python and familiarity with high-performance computing environments.

Selection Process

In selecting successful applicants, La Trobe University prioritise applications from candidates who:

• will be enrolled full-time and undertaking their research at a La Trobe University campus
• have completed an Honours degree with a research thesis, or other significant body of research such as a lead authorship of a peer-reviewed publication, assessed at a La Trobe University Honours standard of 80 or above
• have a background or understanding of mRNA science, genomics or related life-science field
• have evidence of peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or significant research outputs demonstrating capacity for high-impact research

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• If you wish to apply for this scholarship, follow steps 3 & 4 on our Master's by Research apply now webpage to submit your full application for candidature and scholarship. 
• Domestic applicants select the 'Graduate Research - Specialist Research Scholarship' option when prompted in the application portal, and use the scholarship code SRS-25034.
• International applicants select the 'Other' scholarship option when prompted in StudyLink, and use the scholarship code SRS-25034.
• Applicants may be required to attend an interview if shortlist for this scholarship. Applicants should expect to receive an outcome by February 2026.

For enquiries,contact Renee Winzar, [email protected].

For more information, kindly visit La Trobe University scholarship webpage.