In summary

  • Swinburne has joined the prestigious German Research Foundation-funded International Research Training Group (IRTG) on Multidimensional Biomaterials (MB)2 program 

  • The research training program will help build the next generation of researchers through 21 joint PhD opportunities 

  • This program builds on Swinburne’s commitment to advancing medical technology and will help strengthen Australia’s biomaterials research capability 

Swinburne University of Technology has joined the prestigious international research program, the International Research Training Group (IRTG) on Multidimensional Biomaterials (MB)2.

Funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), the German Research Foundation, and led by the University of Bayreuth, the program will support 21 joint PhD candidates across Australia and Germany to drive innovations in biomaterials research. 

According to Swinburne’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Karen Hapgood, the (MB)2 research initiative further cements Swinburne's focus on collaboration and developing a highly skilled biomaterials workforce.

“The (MB)2 research initiative is a great example of Swinburne's commitment to supporting international research partnerships with our long-term German partner University of Bayreuth and our local collaborators Monash University and the University of Melbourne” says Professor Karen Hapgood.

Professor Hapgood further added that “The IRTG connects our graduates with international best practice and networks of expertise."

Building Australia’s future biomaterials workforce

Swinburne lead and Professor of Biomedical Electromaterials Science  Simon Moulton says the IRTG program will help strengthen Australia’s biomaterials research capability and produce graduates who have the skills to navigate the many aspects of biomedical discovery and commercial translation.

Professor Moulton explained that “Swinburne offers a unique environment for research students, combining advanced biomedical engineering facilities with strong connections to industry.”

Adding that “Through the IRTG, we can provide PhD candidates with access to global expertise, cutting-edge research infrastructure and opportunities to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare.” 

Swinburne’s involvement in the (MB)2 program builds on our strong commitment to medical technology and our strategic growth in the sector, with students being able to enhance their learning through industry connections and research training facilities. 

Professor Hapgood adds, “Swinburne's role in the IRTG program reflects our strength in applied research training. Our established partnerships and specialised biomedical research infrastructure will provide opportunities for our research students to engage in applied training in biotechnology and advanced manufacturing to enrich their skills and experience".

PhD students under this program will also have access to leading biomedical engineering facilities such as the ANFF-VIC Biointerface Engineering Hub and the Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD), which houses specialist equipment for biomedical engineering. 

Swinburne has committed to two joint PhD opportunities as part of the IRTG program. 

Expressions of interest are currently open until 25 September 2026.

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