Philanthropy-Funded Scholarships

Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine:

11 research projects available – one scholarship will be awarded

Project enquiries: Please contact the relevant supervisor listed under each research project below for questions about the project, research topic or supervision.

Application enquiries: For technical questions regarding the scholarship application process, please contact Associate Professor Erika Gyengesi Bilaver at

E.Gyengesi@westernsydney.edu.au

Anthony Cowley, a retired tax agent, left a gift in his will to Western Sydney University to establish scholarships in Accounting and in Medicine. The $1.25M bequest enabled the University to endow, in perpetuity, two Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley Scholarships in Accounting, and the Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine. Anthony and Margaret were married for nearly 66 years. The Anthony Cowley bequest represents the largest gift in will to the University in its 35-year history. It is an enduring legacy for the Cowley family that will provide meaningful support for research and future generations of students at Western Sydney University. Mr Cowley died in 2023 at the age of 96 years.

What does the scholarship provide?

The award allocation is a stipend of $40,000 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years and is open to domestic and international candidates.

Eligibility criteria

The scholarship is available to full-time domestic and international PhD applicants. Applicants may apply for any or all of the nine proposed research projects listed below. Please note that only one (1) Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine is available across all nine projects, with the successful recipient to be selected by the School.

How to apply

1. Complete the Philanthropy-Funded HDR Scholarship Application form.
2. Attach a short CV (including refereed publications, popular articles, presentations at conference and prizes) and a letter of support from your Principal Supervisor.
3. Submit the application form and supporting documents via the Scholarship Enquiry form for current candidates.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Underweight, Overweight and Obesity among Adolescent, Young, and Older Women in Sub-Saharan Africa: Analysis of Demographic Health Surveys (2000–2025)

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Levi Osuagwu

L.Osuagwu@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Malnutrition, including underweight, overweight, and obesity, remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly among women across life stages. This PhD project aims to identify individual and community-level determinants of malnutrition among adolescent, young, and older women in SSA using nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data. The project will include a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of malnutrition predictors in low- and middle-income countries, followed by pooled and trend analyses of DHS data across SSA. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression will assess individual and community-level predictors and variations across SSA sub-regions. By addressing evidence gaps across women’s life stages, this research will generate robust, policy-relevant evidence to support targeted nutrition interventions, inform public health policy, and help reduce the double burden of malnutrition and improve women’s health across SSA.

Preferred background, skills and experience

• Public health, epidemiology, health sciences, or a related discipline background.
• Previous research experience.
• Experience using statistical software.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Discovery of Lactobacillus-Derived Therapeutic Proteins for Alzheimer’s Disease

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Mourad Tayebi

M.Tayebi@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Despite recent advances in disease-modifying therapies. Our preliminary studies indicate that selected Lactobacillus strains produce bioactive factors capable of inhibiting amyloid-β42 and Tau aggregation, supporting the development of a novel microbiome-derived therapeutic platform. This PhD project will identify, isolate and characterise Lactobacillus-derived proteins and peptides with anti-Alzheimer’s activity. Candidate molecules will be screened for their ability to inhibit amyloid aggregation, protect neurons from toxicity and modulate neuroinflammatory pathways. Lead candidates will be characterised using biochemical, proteomic and cellular approaches and subsequently evaluated in relevant preclinical models. Mechanistic studies will investigate their effects on amyloid and Tau processing, protein aggregation, neuronal survival and immune signaling. The project aims to discover first-in-class microbial-derived biologics with potential for development as safe, scalable and innovative therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease.

Preferred background, skills and experience

Training in biomedical science, neuroscience, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, biotechnology or a related discipline are encouraged to apply. Experience in cell culture, protein purification and characterisation, proteomics, ELISA, Western blotting, molecular biology or protein aggregation assays would be advantageous. Strong applicants interested in neurodegeneration, microbiome-derived therapeutics and translational drug discovery are particularly encouraged.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Supporting Shared Decision Making in Opioid Dependence Treatment

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Marguerite Tracy

m.tracy2@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Imminent changes to state-based guidelines for opioid dependence treatment (ODT) have created new opportunities to strengthen patient involvement in treatment decisions and support more person-centred models of care. Currently no localised resources exist to support these changes. This PhD project will develop, implement and evaluate resources to support shared decision making (SDM) for people considering or receiving opioid dependence treatment and the clinicians and services providing that care. The project will include a review to inform a co-design process involving people with lived experience, clinicians and other key stakeholders. The resulting resources will be piloted and implemented within ODT services, with evaluation of their acceptability, feasibility and potential impact on person-centred care and SDM processes.

Preferred background, skills and experience

This opportunity would ideally suit a clinician or researcher who has experience in working with people who use substances, shared decision making, implementation science or health services research.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Targeting obesity through naturally occurring regulatory molecules

Lead Supervisor: Professor Anand Hardikar

A.Hardikar@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Obesity has risen sharply, with Western Sydney as one of the worst affected regions within Australia. Recent drugs (such as Ozempic) have demonstrated dramatic improvement in weight management; however, reports of adverse events associated with these drugs compel the research to focus on alternate, cost-effective, biocompatible solutions for obesity. This project is aimed at addressing this issue using food-derived and microbial-derived molecules. We hypothesize that these regulatory molecules offer similar health benefits via interacting with gut cells and gut microbes. This project stems from strong preliminary data and leverages Western Sydney University’s commitment to tackling obesity. It will involve cell and molecular biology experiments, in vitro microbial studies, RNA sequencing, animal studies and data analyses using established infrastructure and workflows. This project will establish new knowledge of regulatory molecules and their role in gut biology. This work would lead to the development of novel solutions to modify obesity landscape.

Preferred background, skills and experience

We are looking for a curious, motivated person with a background in biology. Experience in cell culture work, preclinical animal work and histology is preferred but not essential.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Using Sauna-based Heat Therapy to Enhance the Therapeutic Effects of Donepezil in Alzheimer’s Disease

Lead Supervisor: Rossana Rosa Porto

R.RosaPorto@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: This PhD project will investigate whether heat therapy can enhance the therapeutic effects of donepezil, a widely used symptomatic treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Using established mouse models that represent key Alzheimer’s pathologies, including tau and amyloid-beta accumulation, the project will compare heat treatment, donepezil, and combined therapy across disease-relevant behavioural and biological outcomes. The candidate will assess whether combining heat therapy with donepezil produces additive or synergistic benefits beyond standard treatment alone, with a focus on improving symptoms that matter most to people living with dementia and their carers. The project will involve behavioural testing, western blotting, histology/immunohistochemistry, and analysis of disease pathology in male and female mice. This scholarship offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational Alzheimer’s research and explore an innovative, non-pharmacological strategy that may complement existing treatments.

Preferred background, skills and experience

1. Have an interest in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
2. Be willing to learn a range of laboratory techniques, including animal handling, behavioural testing, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, ELISA, microscopy, and quantitative data analysis.
3. Previous research experience using animal models (particularly rodent models) and/or experience with molecular or histological techniques.
4. Be enthusiastic, highly motivated, and able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
5. Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills and a commitment to producing high-quality research with translational impact.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Mechanisms of astrocyte-driven neurodegeneration in Alexander disease

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Erika Gyengesi

e.gyengesi@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Alexander disease is a rare and frequently fatal neurological disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Building on an established pilot study supported by Thomas Wagner, this project will use the GFAP+/R236H mouse model to investigate how mutant GFAP accumulation and Rosenthal fibre formation lead to progressive astrocyte dysfunction, neuroinflammation and neurological impairment. The student will combine behavioural phenotyping with immunohistochemistry, unbiased stereology, three-dimensional cellular reconstruction and molecular analyses. Particular attention will be given to TDP-43 pathology, microglial responses, white-matter changes and possible sex differences as modifiers of disease progression. The findings will identify cellular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets while establishing a preclinical platform for future treatment studies in Alexander disease.

Preferred applicant background and skills
Applicants should have a background in neuroscience, biomedical science, pharmacology, molecular biology or a related discipline. Experience in animal handling, behavioural neuroscience, histology, microscopy, image analysis or molecular techniques would be advantageous.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- GLP1-Receptor Agonists and Eating Disorders: Friend or Foe?

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Milan Piya

M.Piya@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Glucagon-like peptide1-receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) are the most notable advancethis century in the treatment of obesity (high weight). Their use is highly controversial in the field of eating disorders (EDs) where there is emerging but very limited/low level and short-term evidence for both benefits and harms with their use in people with high weight. This Co-Produced mixed-methods doctorate will be supported by the Macarthur Clinical Obesity Research Program*. The project will investigate the 3 and 12-months outcomes of people exposed to GLP1-RA agonists embedding a randomised controlled trial (RCT) within an established clinical registry. Participants who are eligible to receive a GLP1RA will be invited to the multi-phase double-blind RCT with stratification by type of GLP1-RA and treatment-as-usual control arm with open follow-up phase. Person-centred outcomes and in-depth analyses of treatment experience will inform the optimal use of GLP1-RAs in people with EDs and high weight presenting for multi-disciplinary care.

Preferred applicant background and skills

• Capacity to conduct research within a clinical setting e.g., with such experience and/or clinically qualified
• Clinical/research experience in either the field of obesity/high weight and/or eating disorders

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Translational Evaluation of a Novel Cardiovascular Device for Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention: Cadaveric Validation and First-in-Human Study

Lead Supervisor: Dr Aiden O’Loughlin

A.O'Loughlin@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, with myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke accounting for substantial morbidity and mortality. This PhD project will evaluate a novel cardiovascular medical device designed for atherosclerotic plaque stabilyzation through minimally invasive endovascular deployment. The project will adopt a translational research pathway comprising validation in human cadavers followed by a prospective first-in-human study. Cadaveric investigations will assess device deployment, anatomical compatibility, with imaging and histopathological evaluation. Findings will inform procedural refinements and iteration. Following ethics approval, a first-in-human clinical study will evaluate procedural safety, technical success, and device performance. The project aims to generate foundational evidence supporting a pivotal clinical trial.

Expected PhD Outputs

• Cadaveric anatomy and procedural feasibility study.

• First-in-human feasibility trial (10–20 patients).

• 3–5 peer-reviewed publications.

• Presentation at major cardiovascular conferences (ESC, TCT, EuroPCR, CSANZ).

Preferred applicant background and skills

A background in medicine, biomedical science, biomedical engineering, anatomy, cardiovascular science or a related discipline. Experience in medical devices, cardiovascular anatomy, medical imaging, histology or clinical research would be advantageous, together with strong analytical, communication and teamwork skills.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Understanding links between neurodegeneration and cancer

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Tara Roberts

Tara.Roberts@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: This project focuses on two major diseases of ageing - neurodegeneration and cancer. Epidemiological data indicates that cancer rates are lower in patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Neuronal input into the tumour microenvironment can also enhance cancer cell growth and survival. This project will examine the processes occurring in both cancer and neurodegeneration to understand how neuronal activity is impacting on cancer growth and response to treatment.

Preferred applicant background and skills

A background in biomedical science, neuroscience, cancer biology, molecular biology or a related discipline. Applicants should have laboratory research experience, preferably in molecular and cellular techniques, tissue culture, microscopy or data analysis, with strong analytical, communication and teamwork skills.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- A Co-Designed, Youth-Led Response to the Hidden Health Harms of Vaping Among NSW Young People

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Amit Arora

a.arora@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Vaping among Australian youth aged 16–24 is rising, yet its health impacts remain poorly understood, with no Australian evidence base to guide policy, prevention or clinical care. This PhD project addresses that gap through a consumer, clinicians, and policy-makers co-designed sequential mixed-methods program comprising four interrelated studies: a systematic review of consumer perceptions and risk awareness; a national survey capturing vaping-related health literacy; an evaluation of existing vaping resources using health literacy frameworks and youth co-design workshops; and an national advocacy campaign with young people, clinicians and policymakers to co-develop endorsed prevention and clinical resources. This project will be delivered in partnership with Western Sydney University, University of Sydney, UNSW, WSLHD, NSW Ministry of Health, and Local Councils (Blacktown, Penrith, Cumberland & Parramatta), youth organisations (Youth Action and UN Youth Australia). The project builds Australia's first evidence base on youth vaping and health literacy, trains young people as co-researchers, and produces translational tools for schools, clinicians and policy. A three-month WSLHD internship is built in for the applicant and a top-up scholarship of $15k per year for 3 years.

Preferred applicant background and skills

Interest in consumer co-design or citizen science, alcohol and drug health, youth health, and health equity; qualifications in medicine, public health, health sciences, nursing or psychology beneficial.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

- Extracellular vesicles as disease-modifying therapy for type 1 diabetes

Lead Supervisor: Associate Professor Mugdha Joglekar

m.joglekar@westernsydney.edu.au

Abstract: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition, which requires daily insulin injections to survive. One of the major research gaps is the lack of disease-modifying interventions capable of inhibiting autoimmune activation and thereby preventing loss of insulin producing β-cells. This project aims at evaluating extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a novel, cell-free, immunomodulatory therapy for T1D. We hypothesise that EVs carry regulatory molecules capable of suppressing autoimmunity and protecting β-cells, enabling earlier and more consistent intervention. This project stems from strong preliminary data and will involve cell and molecular biology experiments, animal studies, multiomics and data analyses using already established workflows, high end instrumentation and industry collaborations. This work has the potential to drive the development of cell-free therapeutics capable of reducing the number of individuals progressing to T1D, lowering the financial burden of T1D, and improving quality of life for those living with the disease.

Preferred applicant background and skills

Background in biology; experience in cell culture, preclinical animal work and histology preferred but not essential.

Applications close: 15 October 2026

Reference: Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine 2026

Harry Triguboff AO PhD Scholarship in Construction

To be advised.

The Medich Indigenous HDR Scholarship

To be advised.

F.G. Swain Award

To be advised.

Scholarship contact: Paul Wormell

p.wormell@westernsydney.edu.au

The Award is in recognition of the significant contribution of the late Emeritus Professor Swain AM to Hawkesbury, first as Principal of Hawkesbury Agricultural College over the period 1972 to 1988 and then as Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO of Hawkesbury from 1989 to 1993.

The award is funded by the Hawkesbury Foundation.

The objectives of the award are to:

• Enhance the research outcomes of Doctoral students based on the Hawkesbury Campus.
• Promote the Hawkesbury Campus as a focus of excellence and innovation in research.

Applications for the Award must include details of how they assess that their research will promote Hawkesbury as a centre of excellence and research leader in the broad field of research covered by their PhD.

What does the scholarship provide?

The award allocation is a total fund of up to $15,000. The size of each annual award varies between $5,000 and $15,000 depending on available Hawkesbury Foundation funds and may involve a single grant or multiple awards.

The funds are to be spent within 12 months of notification of the award. The funds are to support a specific activity such as:

• travel for field studies or to collect research data;
• additional research equipment;
• running expenses for research; or
• software/hardware.

Purchases become University property at acquisition.

The funding does not support general living expenses or tuition fees. Conference expenses are also excluded as candidature support funds are available for this purpose.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must be enrolled in a Doctoral programme at Western Sydney, be based on the Hawkesbury Campus and be able to demonstrate good progress in their research. International, local, full or part-time students are eligible.

Reporting requirements

Successful applicants will be required to provide a brief report to the Hawkesbury Foundation Board at the conclusion of their project activity.

How to apply

1. Complete the Philanthropy-Funded HDR Scholarship Application form.
2. Attach a short CV (including refereed publications, popular articles, presentations at conference and prizes) and a letter of support from your Principal Supervisor.
3. Prepare a budget (up to $15,000) with a list of activities, items, expenditure and timeline, and a justification describing how the award will enhance the outcomes associated with your research and promote the excellence of research on the Hawkesbury Campus.
4. Submit the application form and supporting documents via the Scholarship Enquiry form for current candidates.

Adjudication will be by a panel chaired by the Hawkesbury Foundation President (or nominee) and include representatives of the Western Sydney academia and the Graduate Research School. The Committee reserves the right not to award the funds in any given year.

To be advised.

Reference: FG_Swain_2026

Professor Kai Yip Cho Memorial Postgraduate Scholarship

To be advised.

Scholarship contact: Professor Bill Price

w.price@westernsydney.edu.au

The Professor Kai Yip Cho Memorial Scholarship was established in 2009 through a gift from Professor Cho’s family. The scholarship was created to honour Professor Cho’s lifelong work and research in microbiology and mushrooms. Professor Cho’s academic legacy continues through this scholarship at Western Sydney University.

Western Sydney University is proud to support this scholarship through matching gifts with the Cho family.

The objectives of the award are to enhance the research outcomes of doctoral candidates studying biochemistry or microbiology and to promote research excellence and innovation.

What does the scholarship provide?

The scholarship provides a top-up of $7,500 per year to the candidate’s existing full-time scholarship.

Eligibility criteria

The successful candidate must:

• have commenced a doctoral program at Western Sydney University in biochemistry or microbiology, or be undertaking a project with considerable emphasis on either of these areas; and
• be currently receiving a stipend scholarship.

Reporting requirements

Scholarship recipients will be required to provide an annual progress report to Western Sydney University and the Cho family. This report is in additional to any standard candidature reporting requirements.

How to apply

1. Email the scholarship contact above to discuss your eligibility and intention to apply.
2. Complete the Philanthropy-Funded HDR Scholarship Application form.
3. Submit the application form and supporting documents via the Scholarship Enquiry form for current candidates.

The scholarship can be awarded to one current candidate at a time.

To be advised.

Reference: Kai_Yip_Cho_2026