Key facts
About this scholarship
Benefits:
The University of New England (UNE) is offering a PhD scholarship for a domestic or international applicant to undertake innovative research on crop stress sensors, aimed at enhancing the drought resilience of Australian farming systems. This project is funded by the Future Drought Fund through a grant for Long-term trials of drought resilient farming practices.
About the project:
The University of New England (UNE) is offering a PhD scholarship for a domestic or international applicant to undertake innovative research on crop stress sensors, aimed at enhancing the drought resilience of Australian farming systems. This project is funded by the Future Drought Fund through a grant for Long-term trials of drought resilient farming practices.
As a PhD candidate, you will:
- Conduct cutting-edge research by collecting physiological, environmental, and remotely sensed data from long term experiments and on-farm experiments.
- Use advanced technologies, including crop canopy sensors, satellite imagery and UAV/drone remote sensing, to monitor crop stress.
- Integrate sensor data with climate information to develop robust drought indicators that support resilient crop production.
- Collaborate with a diverse range of industry and research stakeholders to deliver impactful scientific outcomes.
The successful candidate will receive world-class training from leading scientists at UNE and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD), as well as industry experts from Goanna Ag and the Australian cotton industry. You will also have access to state-of-the-art research laboratories.
The scholarship package includes:
- Stipend: A tax-free stipend of $41,600 per annuum (2026 rate, with a 4% increase in subsequent years). Payment is made fortnightly.
- Tuition Fees: International candidate will also receive a UNE Tuition Fee Scholarship, covering tuition costs for four years.
- Research Support: Additional funding for conference attendance, fieldwork and specialised training.
- Relocation Assistance: Up to $3,000 to help with moving expenses.
- Health Cover: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international candidates and their family.
Location and Scope
- Base Locations: You will initially be based at UNE in Armidale, NSW and later transition to the Australian Cotton Research Institute in Narrabri, NSW.
- Crops: The project will primarily focus on cotton grown across regions in New South Wales, Queensland and Northern Territory, with additional work on cereal grains, oilseeds and pulses.
- Duration: The scholarship duration is fixed at four years and cannot be extended.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following core and scholarship specific eligibility requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Domestic or international |
| New or Continuing | New |
| Study Mode | On Campus |
| Study Load | Full-time |
| Course type | PhD |
Essential Requirements:
- Hold qualifications equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, (iii) Research Master’s degree, or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications.
- A degree in agriculture, plant science, ecology, biological sciences, environmental science, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated experience with statistical methods and analysis.
- Possess a current and valid driver’s licence.
Desirable Requirements:
- Experience in remote sensing and spatial data analysis.
- Proven experience conducting experiments in agricultural settings.
Before you apply
Before you apply for this scholarship, please ensure you have read and understood the below important information:
Your application must include:
- A current resume/CV.
- Contact information of two professional or academic referees.
- Proof that you meet English language requirements for admission to UNE.
- A cover letter (maximum 400 words) outlining your suitability for the project, highlighting your relevant skills and motivation.
