Developing AI models for identifying the causes of Long COVID

About this project

Advance our understanding of Long COVID

If you are excited about launching your career in technology and keen to harness artificial intelligence to tackle Long COVID, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD with worldwide impact within the Industrial AI Research Centre, in partnership with the CSIRO.

A significant number of patients with COVID-19 experience prolonged symptoms – a condition known as Long COVID. A study in the UK reported that on average, 20% of COVID-19 patients develop Long COVID. 

However, few studies have investigated this population, so relatively little is known about the causes, especially the genetic causes, of Long COVID, and possible treatments for these patients.

Our project aims to identify the genetic causes of Long COVID using AI models. You will have the opportunity to work with data scientists and biologists to tackle an important health and research problem. 

You will join the vibrant cohort at the IAI Research Centre, specifically joining the AI for Biomedicine and Bioinformatics stream. You will benefit from supervision by a team of researchers from different disciplines (e.g., AI, Bioinformatics, Cancer Biology) and gain valuable feedback and mentorship that will help you thrive in your studies.

The Centre boasts worldclass research facilities and resources and strong partnerships with industry and government. We provide you with a collaborative research environment with many opportunities for you to start building your professional network and thrive in your studies. 

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will work with researchers from different disciplines to conduct your research. Tasks will include processing Long COVID data, understanding AI models, developing algorithms, and writing code (in R or Python) to identify the genes that cause Long COVID. You will communicate with experts to interpret the results.

This research area is thriving and your expertise, skills and knowledge will be in demand upon completion of the project. You will be well positioned to launch your career in academia, government or industry. 

Where you’ll be based

You will be based within the IAI Research Centre. We bring together experts from across computer sciences to develop solutions for autonomous and augmented intelligence systems. We are a part of the global revolution in artificial intelligence, machine learning, Industry 4.0 and Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies. 

Our researchers work with organisations around the world to develop solutions that cater to their specific needs. We have worked with Siemens, BP Australia, Yokogawa Electric and more, growing these partnerships over time to continually design sophisticated AI-driven solutions. 

The Industrial AI Research Centre has the skills and knowledge to meet demand and lead the next technological revolution Financial Support  

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 (2025 rate) per annum is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

Eligibility and Selection 

This project is open to applications from both Domestic and International applicants.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• Strong background in Computer Science / Data Science
• Strong programming skills (R and/or Python) 
• Strong Mathematics/Statistics background

Applicant who can also demonstrate the following will be highly regarded:

• Knowledge of Bioinformatics and research experience are desirable

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes Campus in the north of Adelaide. Note that international students on a student visa will need to study full-time.

Essential Dates 

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Monday 25 November 2024.