Transforming early autism screening with multimodal AI
Background
Expressions of interest
This prestigious Industry PhD project, offered through a collaboration between CSIRO, La Trobe University, and industry partner Rocket Punch Pvt Ltd, seeks to develop innovative AI models that integrate brain signals and behavioral data to improve early autism screening. The project's outcome will be the creation of validated digital biomarkers and a prototype dashboard for scalable, explainable autism risk assessment.
As an applicant, you should have a strong interest in artificial intelligence, and the intersection of healthcare and technology. Your research will address pressing challenges in early autism detection, providing more accessible and accurate screenings for at-risk individuals. The project’s findings will not only enable earlier interventions but also contribute to reducing long-term healthcare costs, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum.
This exciting opportunity is part of a cutting-edge initiative to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and societal impact. By collaborating with world-class researchers and an innovative industry partner, you will have the chance to develop both practical and theoretical expertise that addresses critical challenges in healthcare.
As the successful candidate, you will bring:
Essential criteria:
- Masters (or Honours) in computer science, data science, biomedical engineering or neuroscience
- hands-on experience with Python and ML libraries (PyTorch/TensorFlow)
- experience with signal/image processing or computer vision for video
- strong programming and data engineering skills
Desirable:
- experience with longitudinal/temporal models (transformers, RNNs), explainable AI methods, and prior exposure to clinical data governance/ethics
Benefits of the scholarship
- a stipend scholarship for up to four years with a 2026 value of approximately $48,071 per annum (non-taxable, pro-rata)
- a fee relief scholarship for up to four years
- a four year Project Expense and Development package of $13,000 per annum
- a 60 day Industry Engagement component with the industry partner
- supervision by the participating university, CSIRO, and the industry partner
- structured professional development and training program to develop your applied research skills
- opportunities to work with La Trobe's outstanding researchers, and have access to our suite of professional development programs
Are you eligible to apply?
To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, applicants must:
- meet the entrance requirements of the Doctor of Philosophy
- be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen
- meet the English language requirements
- not have previously completed a PhD
- be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer
- enrol as a full-time PhD candidate. Part-time arrangements may be considered in limited circumstances
- 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
- 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
In selecting the successful applicant, we prioritise applications from candidates who:
- have completed a Master's by research or other significant body of research, such as an Honours research thesis or a Master's by coursework minor thesis, assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 75 or above
How to apply
Please submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) to Dr Lianhua Chi via email - L.Chi@latrobe.edu.au. Your EOI should include the following attachments:
- a cover letter outlining suitability for the project, highlighting motivation, and demonstrating the ability to meet the essential and desirable criteria
- a current curriculum vitae detailing relevant qualifications and work experience, including two academic referees and a list of publications (if applicable)
- a copy of academic transcripts for all higher education qualifications
- electronic copies of any relevant publications, manuscripts, or your Honours/Master's thesis (if applicable)
- any other relevant achievements or supporting records
Selection process
- only the top applicant will be invited to submit a full application for the Doctor of Philosophy for further consideration
- shortlisted candidates may be required to attend an interview as part of the selection process
- only shortlisted candidates will be advised of the outcome in March/ April 2026
Who to contact for further information
Dr Lianhua Chi, L.Chi@latrobe.edu.au