Debanjana Maity – UQ RTP Scholarship Recipient Pursuing PhD in Microbiology at the University of Queensland

Hi, I’m Debanjana Maity from India, currently pursuing a PhD in Microbiology at the University of Queensland (UQ), Australia. My academic journey has taken me across India, Europe, the UK, and now Australia, driven by a fascination with how bacteria survive and adapt—particularly under antibiotic pressure. I’m currently researching the coordination between outer membrane protein (OMP) biogenesis and peptidoglycan remodelling in Gram-negative bacteria. This field sits at the heart of antimicrobial resistance, and I’m passionate about contributing to solutions that tackle this global health threat.

University of Queensland Research Training Program (UQ RTP) Scholarship Details

I am a recipient of the University of Queensland Research Training Program (UQ RTP) Scholarship, a competitive award jointly funded by the Australian Government and UQ to support high-calibre PhD students. In addition to the RTP, I was awarded a UQ top-up scholarship in recognition of my academic performance and research potential. These scholarships provide full tuition coverage and a living stipend, enabling me to focus entirely on my research, training, and broader academic involvement. I was particularly drawn to UQ because of the opportunity to work with Professor Waldemar Vollmer, a globally recognised leader in bacterial cell envelope biology, whose work I had long admired and hoped to be a part of.

Educational Background

Before joining UQ, I completed a Master of Research (M.Res) in Molecular Microbiology at Newcastle University, UK, where I investigated mucin degradation pathways in the gut commensal Akkermansia muciniphila. I also hold an integrated B.Tech–M.Tech degree in Biotechnology from KIIT University, India. These experiences helped build a strong foundation in molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, and microbial physiology, and gave me exposure to both academic and applied research.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Australian Universities?

I started by identifying labs whose research aligned closely with my interests—particularly those working on bacterial membranes and antibiotic resistance mechanisms. I reached out to potential supervisors, including Professor Vollmer, with personalized emails, detailing how my past work connected with theirs. I also attended virtual open days and academic webinars to better understand the lab environments and available funding opportunities. Importantly, I gave myself enough time to prepare compelling research proposals tailored to each institution.

Standardized Tests & Preparation

Since I was applying to institutions in the UK and Australia, only an English proficiency test was required. I took the IELTS. I prepared using free resources from the British Council, as well as online listening and speaking tutorials.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the RTP and Top-Up Scholarships?

For the RTP and top-up scholarships at UQ, I focused on crafting a research proposal that was both innovative and clearly aligned with the expertise of my prospective supervisor. I invested significant time refining my CV, personal statement, and gathering strong reference letters. I also highlighted my prior research experience across three countries and published work, as well as leadership and outreach involvement—which helped me stand out as a well-rounded candidate.

Experience at the University of Queensland

My experience at UQ so far has been deeply fulfilling. The research culture is collaborative, forward-thinking, and supportive. I’ve had opportunities to present my work, attend high-level seminars, and even supervise an Honours student working on the interaction between the BAM complex and DolP. I’m also actively engaged with EU BREAKthrough consortium as a student representative, and I serve on the Centre for Superbug Solutions committee—both of which have broadened my academic network and allowed me to contribute beyond the lab.

What Made My Application Stand Out:

Several elements likely helped:

• A focused academic and research trajectory in bacterial cell envelope biology
• Multiple international research experiences and a track record of adaptability
• Prior publications and strong technical skills in protein biochemistry and microbiology
• Leadership roles and science communication experience (e.g., Wonder of Science Ambassador)
• A well-aligned, detailed, and feasible research proposal tailored to my supervisor’s lab

What I Would Have Done Differently:

In hindsight, I would have reached out to supervisors even earlier and started drafting scholarship essays and documents well in advance. Keeping a tracker for deadlines and required materials would also have saved time and stress closer to the application date.

Advice for Future Applicants:

• Start early—especially in contacting supervisors and preparing documents
• Tailor every part of your application to the lab and scholarship you're applying for
• Show your uniqueness—highlight both academic achievements and extracurricular involvement
• Leverage your network—talk to current or former students from your target lab or program
• Finally, stay persistent. Rejections are part of the process, but the right fit is worth the effort