CSIRO Industry PhD: Development of a novel system for daily patient dose verification using a transmission detector

This project will develop a novel system that uses a transmission detector to provide accurate and independent verification of the dose delivered to cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. The expected outcomes are to produce an estimation-based algorithm to determine the treatment dose, reconstructed on daily verification images and a sensitivity analysis by introducing known delivery errors and validating results against independent measurements. This technology will enhance the safety and accuracy of modern radiotherapy, enabling personalised treatment assessment and improving patient outcomes.

The opportunity:

The CSIRO Industry PhD Program (iPhD) is a four-year research training program, focusing on applied research that benefits industry by solving real-world challenges. It aims to produce the next generation of innovation leaders with the skills to work at the interface of research and industry in Australia. 

The Program includes:

1. Admission to a university PhD program.
2. Supervision by the participating university, CSIRO, and an industry partner.
3. A four year scholarship package totalling approximately $47,000 per annum (2025 rate).  
4. A four year Project Expense and Development package of $13,000 per annum. 
5. A 60 day Industry Engagement component with the industry partner. 
6. A structured professional development and training program to develop your applied research skills.

Successful students are subject to the policies, procedures and guidelines of the participating university in addition to the CSIRO Industry PhD Program terms and conditions. Students will receive a standard PhD on completion.

Supervisory team details:

University

CSIRO

Industry

Essential skills:

• A master’s or bachelor’s degree with Honours in Medical Physics, Physics, Computer Science or equivalent.
• Proficiency in Python and C++ programming, statistical data processing and data analysis and image processing.
• Be prepared to undergo onboarding to NSW Health and associated mandatory requirements.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work and effectively communicate in a multidisciplinary and virtual team.

Eligibility Requirements 

1. Be an Australian citizen or Permanent Resident, or a New Zealand citizen.  
2. Meet participating university PhD admission requirements. 
3. Meet university English language requirements. 
4. Not have previously completed a PhD.
5. Be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer. 
6. Enrol as a full-time PhD student. Part-time arrangements may be considered if approved by the supervisory team and in accordance with university policy.
7. Be prepared to be located at the project location(s) that the host university has approved and, if required, comply with the host university’s external enrolment procedures. 
8. Be prepared to undergo onboarding to CSIRO, which will include passing mandatory government background checks (allow for between 4 to 8 weeks) and complete any other CSIRO requirements. 

Application Process 

1. Applicants are required to submit an expression of interest (EOI), CV, transcripts and your motivation to the above supervisory team
2. The EOI is assessed by the supervisory team and shortlisted applicants are interviewed. 
3. The supervisory team nominates a preferred applicant and informs iPhD office and the Graduate Research School

Further information:

Please see the CSIRO website and the project site Development of a novel system for daily patient dose verification using a transmission detector or contact a member of the supervisory team above.