Explore research this summer with NQRTH!

Are you a JCU medical student looking to gain hands-on research experience and make a meaningful contribution to health in regional, rural, remote, and tropical Australia?

The NQRTH MBBS Summer Research Bursary Program offers MBBS students the opportunity to work alongside experienced researchers during the summer break, developing valuable research skills while contributing to projects that address real-world health challenges.

Projects are available across a diverse range of disciplines, including clinical research, public health, medical education, allergy and immunology, Indigenous health, workforce development, artificial intelligence in healthcare, emergency medicine, and laboratory-based research. Opportunities include systematic reviews, qualitative studies, mixed-methods research, fieldwork, and laboratory projects.

This year, students can choose from projects based in Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa, online, or across multiple locations, with flexible options available for some projects.

Whether you're considering a future as a clinician-researcher, exploring a particular area of medicine, or simply curious about the research process, the Summer Research Bursary Program provides a supportive environment to build your skills, expand your professional network, and contribute to improving health outcomes across northern Australia.

Applications are competitive and open to MBBS students in Years 1-5. Explore the project list and discover where research can take you.

How to apply

2026 applications open: Friday 14 August
2026 applications close: 5:00 pm, Friday 25 September

1. Prior to submitting an application, read through the NQRTH MBBS Summer Research Bursaries guidelines, FAQs and application information. 

VIEW GUIDELINES

FAQs

Application information

2. Review the project list below and select two projects that you are most interested in applying for.

3. Send an email to the supervisors for these TWO PROJECTS ONLY, introducing yourself and expressing an interest in their project as part of the NQRTH MBBS Summer Research Bursary Program. Supervisor email addresses can be obtained via staff search on the JCU website. 

4. Once you have made initial contact with each of the two supervisors and they have responded, then you can fill in the application form. You will need to submit a completed online application form by the closing date. A copy of your curriculum vitae and a personal statement must be uploaded as part to the online form.

Application Form

If you have any further questions about the application process send an email to: nqrth.admin@jcu.edu.au.  

2026  Project list 

Gendering the Machine: An Exploration of Gender Attribution to AI Systems and Its Underlying Drivers

As AI systems (voice assistants, chatbots, robots, and generative tools) become embedded in daily life, users often assign gender to them, despite AI having no biological sex. This tendency to anthropomorphise and gender AI carries implications for stereotyping, trust, perceived competence, and design choices. This study investigates what gender (male, female, or neutral/non-binary) people assign to different AI systems and explores the psychological, social, cultural, and design factors driving these attributions.

Supervisor: Dr Zinat Mohammadpour
Project location: Cairns, with possible online delivery. Cairns-based students preferred.
Type of research: Mixed methods

Patient Voices in the Fine Print: How ‘Patient-Centered’ Are Australia’s Chronic Disease Guidelines?

Student project assessing patient involvement in the development of Australian chronic disease guidelines (diabetes, COPD, asthma, CKD). Using NHMRC consumer-engagement standards, the student will apply a scoring rubric (representation, recruitment/support, stages of involvement, public consultation, preference evidence) to multiple guidelines to quantify and compare how “patient-centred” their development processes actually are, aiming for a short, publishable analysis.

Supervisor: A/Prof Julie Mudd
Project location: Cairns, with possible online delivery. Cairns-based students preferred.
Type of research: Systematic review of guidelines

Response Rates to Survey-Based Research Among Medical Students in Australia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This project aims to systematically review and quantitatively synthesise the response rates of Australian medical students participating in survey-based research. The study will identify published research involving medical student surveys, extract response rate data, and estimate pooled response rates using meta-analytic techniques. Factors associated with survey participation, such as survey mode, study design, timing, and institutional characteristics, will also be explored. By providing an overview of response patterns and potential sources of variation, this review will inform the design and interpretation of future medical education research and support the development of strategies to improve survey engagement among medical students in Australia.

Supervisor: Dr Zinat Mohammadpour
Project location: Cairns
Type of research: Systematic literature review

Characterisation of Unconventional T Cells in the Gut

Unconventional T cells are immune cells involved in infection and cancer control. The intestine is one of the sites where they carry out such functions. However, the subset composition, distribution and phenotype of these populations along the gastrointestinal tract remain incompletely defined. This project will use flow cytometry (a key technology in immunology research) and other tools to shed more light on unconventional T cells in the gut, contributing to a foundation for future bowel cancer immunotherapy approaches via unconventional T cells.

Supervisor: Dr Roland Ruscher
Project location: Cairns
Type of research: Lab-based

Capturing the Journey of First Nations JCU Medical Students, Past and Present

James Cook University first offered the MBBS course in 2000, with a focus on rural, remote, Indigenous and tropical health. During the last 25 years there has been an increasing focus on ensuring that students who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander are encouraged to apply and are adequately supported during the six-year program. While graduate outcomes have been studied since the first graduating cohort of 2005, to date no specific research has been conducted to focus on our First Nations students and graduate outcomes. This project aims to assist a current First Nations student to explore the experiences of First Nations JCU medical students and graduates.

Supervisor: A/Prof Aileen Traves
Project location: Cairns
Type of research: Mixed methods

Literature Search on Use of GLP-1 Agonists on Clozapine-Induced Weight Gain

I would like to do a current literature search on use of GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide and Liraglutide on Clozapine-induced weight gain. Clozapine is a second line antipsychotic used only in treatment resistant cases of psychosis. However, it can lead to a significant weight gain impacting patients overall health and future functioning. If using GLP-1 agonists can reverse that or doesn't allow weight gain in concurrent use from the beginning then it will be good option for clozapine clinics to have in future.

Supervisor: Dr Ashish Rana
Project location: Mackay
Type of research: Systematic literature review

Biophotonic Measurement of Cerebrospinal Fluid in aSAH

This scoping review aims to identify which biophotonic methods of measuring cerebrospinal fluid contents have been reported in the literature with a particular focus on aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage.

Supervisor: A/Prof Eamon Raith
Project location: Mackay and online
Type of research: Systematic literature review

Biomarker and Cytokine Associations with Critical Illness or Mortality in Secondary Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis

This scoping review aims to identify which cytokines are reported to be associated with an increase in mortality.

Supervisor: A/Prof Eamon Raith
Project location: Mackay and online
Type of research: Systematic literature review

Cerebral Venous Physiology, CSF Production and Glymphatic Drainage

A short review article, targeted at intensive care medicine specialists. This may be submitted to Intensive Care Medicine as part of a special series on ICU Physiology.

Supervisor: A/Prof Eamon Raith
Project location: Mackay and online
Type of research: Narrative review article

Exploring Perspectives of UDRH-Stakeholder Relationships: Enablers, Constraints and Opportunities

Stakeholder relationships underpin the success of University Departments of Rural Health (UDRHs), supporting clinical placements, student supervision, workforce development, and community-engaged research in rural and remote communities. This project will explore the perspectives of cross-sector community stakeholders and UDRH staff in remote Mount Isa to identify the enablers, constraints, and opportunities that shape effective partnerships and their contribution to educational, workforce, and community outcomes. Students will gain practical experience in qualitative research, including interviewing and thematic analysis, and will be invited to contribute to publications arising from the project.

Supervisor: Dr Richard Violette
Project location: Mount Isa or online
Type of research: Qualitative

Building Resilient Identities for Doctors who are Globally Educated (BRIDGE)

The BRIDGE project (Building Resilient Identities for Doctors who are Globally Educated), is a qualitative study across Townsville and Metro South Hospital and Health Services in Queensland. It investigates how International Medical Graduates' (IMGs) professional identity is affected when transitioning into the Australian healthcare system, comparing metropolitan versus regional/rural settings. Methods combine an anonymous online cross-sectional survey with optional semi-structured follow-up interviews, analysed using grounded theory. The project will examine the regulatory, cultural, hierarchical, and interpersonal factors shaping IMGs' sense of professional status, belonging, and competence, aiming to generate evidence-based recommendations for supporting IMGs during workforce transition. Expected duration: 12 months.

Supervisor: A/Professor Rebecca Stewart
Project location: Online
Type of research: Qualitative

“AI-gogy” Student Learning in the Age of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming health professions education by reshaping how students learn. Questions have been raised about ethical use, quality of learning and clinical judgement among students using AI. Recent research is proposing new conceptual model of learning in the age of AI called "AI-gogy" an extension of existing educational theories of Pedagogy, Andragogy and Heutagogy. Project involves finding how current generation of JCU medical students are learning with AI. Followed by AI-gogy Intervention of training on “AI-gogy” principles how learning happens when AI is used. Followed by survey on post intervention, student perceptions of AI-gogy in learning.

Supervisor: A/Prof Shashidhar Venkatesh Murthy
Project location: Online
Type of research: Qualitative

Exploring the Epigenetic Aetiology of Cleft Palate Disorders

Non-syndromic Cleft Lip and/or Palate (nsCL/P) is the most common congenital orofacial defect globally. While the aetiology remains incompletely understood, epigenetics is likely to play an important role. Building on a previous project that generated methylomic and RNA-seq data from nsCL/P patients and their parents, we have now incorporated newly collected samples from the 2025 and 2026 missions, substantially expanding the dataset. This expanded dataset provides new opportunities to investigate heritable epigenetic signatures between parents and children, identify geographic influences on DNA methylation patterns, and determine how epigenetic changes are linked to gene expression. You will explore the dataset with the aim of uncovering novel insights into the biological mechanisms underlying nsCL/P. This project is ideal for aspiring scientists and clinician-scientists, regardless of prior experience with large-scale data analysis, with support available throughout.

Supervisor: Dr Daniel Browne
Project location: Online
Type of research: Quantitative

Female Athlete Testing Rugby League Talent Development Pathway

Data collection on field after hours Townsville. Suit those interested in Anatomy and Sports Medicine. Discriminating physical attribute across the QRL Female pathway U17 U19 and BMD athletes testing using unique US based equipment 'Voltra'. We will measure athletes force, velocity power and range of motion in real time including eccentric overload, isokinetic speed control, velocity dependent loading and isometric testing. Identify discriminating profiles for subsequent research outputs.

Supervisor: Dr Leesa Grier
Project location: Townsville, with potential for Cairns and Mackay
Type of research: Field data collection and analysis of findings

Travel Risk for Australians

We obtained a large data set from an Australian travel insurance provider. We want to find out what the risk of getting sick for travellers is when they go on holidays. Health providers can then give better advice to their clients, for example if vaccination is required. Our dataset is one of the largest data sets ever used for this kind of research.

Supervisor: A/Prof Lars Henning
Project location: Townsville
Type of research: Clinical

Improving the Diagnosis of Shellfish Allergy: A Clinical and Molecular Allergy Research Approach

Shellfish allergy is one of the most common and potentially severe food allergies, yet accurate diagnosis remains a persistent clinical challenge due to variability in individual sensitization patterns. Improving diagnostic precision is essential for reducing unnecessary dietary restrictions and preventing missed or delayed diagnoses. This project is part of an ongoing clinical research program investigating shellfish allergy and improving precision allergy diagnosis in tropical Australia. A well-established patient cohort and associated serum samples are already available. The student will work with the research team to collect and validate additional clinical information from existing medical records and collaborating clinicians, including allergy history, symptoms, diagnostic test results, and relevant medical information. The project will provide hands-on experience in clinical research, data management, and interpretation of allergy diagnostics, while contributing to a comprehensive clinical dataset that will support future studies aimed at improving the diagnosis and management of shellfish allergy.

Supervisor: Prof Andreas Ludwig Lopata
Project location: Townsville
Type of research: Mixed methods

Serial Biomarkers Integrated with Fetal Ultrasound to Distinguish Fetal Growth Restriction Due to Placental Insufficiency in a Regional Tertiary Setting

The BUSH BABE study is a prospective cohort study investigating whether placental biomarkers can distinguish placenta-mediated fetal growth restriction from constitutionally small but healthy fetuses. Pregnant women referred to the Townsville University Hospital Maternal–Fetal Medicine service with suspected placental insufficiency will undergo serial measurement of maternal serum sFlt-1 and PlGF and urinary nephrin, alongside ultrasound growth and Doppler assessment. Clinical, biomarker, birth, neonatal and placental histology data will be analysed to identify combinations that best predict placental dysfunction. The project aims to improve risk stratification, reduce unnecessary intervention and transfer, and support safer maternity care across rural, remote and First Nations communities in Northern Queensland.

Supervisor: Dr Zoe Byrne
Project location: Townsville
Type of research: Clinical and lab-based

Understanding Dermatitis in North Queensland: Epidemiology, Environmental Drivers, and Public Health Implications

This project will investigate dermatitis in North Queensland by examining its prevalence, distribution, and key risk factors across diverse communities and environments. It will assess how climate, humidity, occupational exposures, socioeconomic conditions, allergens, and access to healthcare contribute to disease burden. By integrating epidemiological data with environmental and public health analyses, the study aims to identify vulnerable populations, seasonal patterns, and preventable drivers of dermatitis. Findings will inform targeted prevention strategies, improve clinical awareness, and support evidence-based public health policies for skin health in tropical northern Australia.

Supervisor: Dr Socorro Miranda-Hernandez
Project location: Townsville
Type of research: Systematic literature review

Emerging Technology Use in Prehospital and Retrieval Medicine: A Scoping Review

Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ) coordinates the aeromedical retrieval of critically unwell patients across the state. In a world of rapid technological advancement there is a proliferation of AI tools and emerging technologies changing the way we live and work. This scoping review is designed to understand the current landscape in the prehospital and retrieval medicine environment, identifying new AI and smart technology tools and techniques that are being implemented and evaluated within this unique context.

Supervisor: Dr Lynsey Brown
Project location: Townsville or online
Type of research: Scoping review

Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Aeromedical Transfer or Telehealth? A Scoping Review

Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ) coordinates the aeromedical retrieval of critically unwell patients across the state and provides specialised telehealth support for patients and clinicians in rural and remote locations. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is an insulin deficiency issue that for many patients has a predictable recovery pathway via clear guidelines for treatment, using commonly available hospital resources (regardless of facility level). At present most patients experiencing DKA in rural and remote locations are referred for aeromedical transfer to larger tertiary centres. This scoping review will explore the currently available literature on a) DKA in the aeromedical context, b) telehealth for DKA, and c) characteristics that could be used to identify a subset of patients that could be managed closer to home.

Supervisor: Dr Lynsey Brown
Project location: Townsville or online