Curtin University is offering a HDR Scholarship in Environmental Controls of Soil Carbon Sequestration. This exciting opportunity is part of the ARC Industrial Transformation and Training Centre for Healing Country, an Indigenous-led initiative. The selected candidate will receive a stipend of $35,000 per year for up to 3.5 years, with international student tuition fee offsets available.

Applicants must hold a First or Upper Second-Class Bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) or a Master’s degree in a relevant science field, such as ecology, environment, soil, agriculture, or biological sciences. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of soil processes, restoration ecology, and the soil carbon cycle, along with excellent communication and scientific writing skills. The ability to work collaboratively, including with Indigenous communities, and proficiency in conducting both field and laboratory research are essential.

Curtin University is a leading global institution known for its strong focus on innovation, research, and industry partnerships located in Perth, Western Australia. Established in 1966, Curtin offers a wide range of programs across disciplines such as science, engineering, business, and health sciences. The university is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and indigenous knowledge, playing a pivotal role in research that addresses real-world challenges.

Application Deadline: 31 January 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Curtin University
• Department: Faculty of Science & Engineering
• Course Level: PhD (Higher Degree by Research)
• Award: PhD Stipend valued at $35,000 p.a. for a maximum of 3.5 years
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: 1
• Nationality: Open to Australian citizens, permanent residents, New Zealand citizens, and international students
• The award can be taken in: Australia

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in any subject offered by the Faculty of Science & Engineering, with a focus on ecological restoration and soil carbon sequestration.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Must hold a First or Upper Second-Class Bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) or a Master’s degree in a relevant science field (ecology, environment, soil, agriculture, precision agriculture, biological sciences) with a Merit and an average grade of at least 60%.
2. Must demonstrate:
   • Excellent understanding of soil processes and restoration ecology.
   • Strong aptitude for working collaboratively, including with Indigenous communities, and proficiency in conducting field trips and laboratory analyses.
   • Understanding of the soil carbon cycle, Australian native flora, and proficiency in soil laboratory and statistical analysis.
   • Exceptional written and communication skills, with a strong aptitude for scientific writing and publication.
3. Must not be engaged in full-time employment or have any obligations that would interfere with their intellectual property rights during the course of their research.
4. Full-time enrollment is required for the duration of 3.5 years.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form along with the following documents:

• Academic merit details.
• Understanding of the research field.
• Curriculum vitae and publications.
• Two academic references.
• Personal statement addressing the listed eligibility criteria.

For future students, please contact Professor Stephen van Leeuwen at +61 8 9266 2890 or via email at [email protected] for further details.