The University of Queensland is excited to announce the PhD Top-Up Scholarship 2025 for domestic and international researchers passionate about urban sustainability. This scholarship offers $8,000 per year for up to 3 years, along with access to a world-class research environment and expert guidance, to support PhD candidates developing systems-based strategies for implementing and scaling sustainability initiatives in cities.
Interested applicants with a background in urban design, planning, conservation, or governance, and holding a living allowance scholarship, should apply soon as explained in following article.
Benefits of UQ Top-up Scholarship
The scholarship supports researchers aiming to advance urban sustainability by identifying leverage points in urban systems and scaling multi-benefit initiatives. Benefits include:
- Financial support of $8,000 per year to complement a living allowance.
- Access to an interdisciplinary research environment at UQ.
- Guidance from esteemed supervisors, including Dr. Ray Maher and Professor Steven Kenway.
- Collaboration opportunities with stakeholders, including government bodies, urban planners, and water authorities.
- Participation in cutting-edge research initiatives focusing on sustainability, biodiversity, and water systems.
Project Aims
The scholarship project seeks to develop strategies for implementing scalable sustainability initiatives in urban environments. Key objectives include:
- Identifying Leverage Points: Uncover systems-level opportunities for impactful sustainability practices.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to inform effective implementation.
- Systems Mapping: Utilize methodologies to analyze pathways for scaling sustainability initiatives.
Through case study analyses, structured interviews, and systems mapping, the PhD candidates will contribute actionable insights for urban governance systems to enhance live-ability, decarbonization, and ecosystem health.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Meet the entry requirements for a higher degree by research.
- Be awarded a living allowance scholarship equivalent to the Research Training Program (RTP) rate.
- Demonstrate academic excellence in urban design, urban planning, conservation sciences, or governance.
A strong foundation in urban sustainability, water systems, and policy will enhance an applicant’s competitiveness.
The last date to apply for the PhD Top-Up Scholarship: Systems-Based Strategies for Implementing Sustainability in Cities is 7 February 2025. Applications for financial assistance for the scholarship are also due by 7 February 2025.