This internet browser is outdated and does not support all features of this site. Please switch or upgrade to a different browser to display this site properly.

HomeCIRAStudent opportunitiesHigher Degree by Research (HDR)

Higher Degree by Research (HDR)

Currently Available HDR Projects

World-leading research at the Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy is exploring the nature of radio emission produced by compact objects: from white dwarfs, to neutron stars, to black holes.

The Australian Research Council has funded three new Discovery Program grants led by Prof James Miller-Jones, A/Prof Natasha Hurley-Walker, and Dr Kristen Dage. The purpose of these scholarships is to attract enthusiastic junior scholars to join our team and expand our understanding, as well as building capacity for similar studies with the SKA, which will be the world’s largest radio telescope.

Ideal Candidate

Candidates with a relevant undergraduate degree, interested in astrophysics, and enthusiastic to undertake impactful scientific research projects in radio astronomy at a PhD level and remain enrolled in a full time capacity.

Applicants must have completed or be within six months of completion of an Australian Honours degree, or a Masters in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or related field, with the transcripts demonstrating the upper second, first class, or distinction marks (or equivalent).

Applicants should demonstrate research experience, such as publications in a peer-reviewed journal, a final-year research project worth >25% of their final year mark, and/or vacation research experience.

Two Scholarships are available to Domestic and International candidates, and one to domestic candidates only.

Scholarships

Three scholarships are available to provide a living stipend of $38,440 p.a. pro rata indexed, based on full-time studies, for up to a maximum of 3.5 years. Computing equipment, travel, and research support funding will also be provided. Tuition Fee offset support is available for two successful International Candidates.

Applications open: 01/05/2026

Applications Close: 31/05/2026

Enquiries

White Dwarf Pulsars: A New Frontier : A/Prof Natasha Hurley-Walker Natasha.Hurley-Walker@curtin.edu.au

Impact of Stellar-mass Black Holes on Cosmology Reionization Dr Kristen Dage Kristen.Dage@curtin.edu.au

The Sharpest View of Time-variable Radio Jets from Feeding Black Holes Prof James Miller-Jones James.Miller-Jones@curtin.edu.au

To formally apply please submit an Expression of Interest form to the relevant project lead within the designated application period.