🇦🇺 QUEX PhD scholarships by The University of Queensland in Australia are open now
The QUEX PhD Scholarship is a prestigious joint doctoral program offered by The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia, and the University of Exeter, UK. This program is designed for exceptional students aiming to address global challenges in sustainability and wellbeing through collaborative research.
Program Overview
The QUEX PhD Scholarship provides an opportunity to engage in a cross-continental research experience, benefiting from the combined expertise and facilities of both UQ and the University of Exeter.
Scholars will undertake research projects aligned with one of the following priority themes:
Healthy Living
Global Environmental Futures
Digital Worlds and Disruptive Technologies
Mineral Security and Sustainability
Each candidate will be enrolled full-time and will spend at least 12 months at each institution over the duration of their candidature, culminating in a joint PhD degree awarded by both universities.​
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive support, including:​
A living stipend of AUD $36,400 per annum (tax-free, 2025 rate), indexed annually
Full tuition fee coverage
Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
A travel and development allowance of AUD $18,000 over the duration of the program.
The stipend is designed to support living expenses, while the travel allowance facilitates research-related travel between the two institutions and attendance at relevant academic events.​
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is open to both domestic and international students who meet the following criteria:​
Intend to enroll as a future UQ student
Demonstrate academic excellence and a strong research background
Meet the entry requirements for a PhD program at both UQ and the University of Exeter.
Applicants should be prepared to undertake their research on a full-time basis and be willing to spend significant periods at both institutions.
Application Process
Applications for the QUEX PhD Scholarship open on 14 April 2025 and close on 15 May 2025. Prospective candidates should prepare the following:​
A detailed research proposal aligned with one of the QUEX priority themes
Academic transcripts and proof of qualifications
A curriculum vitae highlighting research experience
Contact details for academic referees​
Applications must be submitted through the official UQ Scholarships portal. It is advisable to contact potential supervisors at both institutions to discuss research interests and ensure alignment with available projects.
Featured Project: ML-Driven Digital Twins for Smart Tunnel Monitoring and Resilience
One of the highlighted projects under the QUEX PhD Scholarship is focused on developing a Machine Learning-driven Digital Twin framework for tunnel monitoring. This project aims to enhance the resilience and predictive maintenance of underground infrastructure, particularly in the rail sector.​
Project Team
Dr. Jurij Karlovsek (UQ)
Dr. Man Luo (University of Exeter)​
Project Objectives
Develop a real-time Digital Twin framework for structural health monitoring of tunnels
Apply Machine Learning algorithms to detect failure mechanisms and predict deterioration trends
Ensure scalability for deployment across diverse tunnel networks
Validate the framework using operational data from real-world rail tunnel environments​
This project exemplifies the interdisciplinary and practical nature of research conducted under the QUEX PhD program, combining civil engineering, data science, and infrastructure management.
Conclusion
The QUEX PhD Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers to engage in high-impact, interdisciplinary projects that address critical global issues. With comprehensive support and access to world-class facilities, scholars will be well-equipped to contribute to advancements in sustainability and wellbeing.
For more information and to apply, visit the QUEX PhD Scholarship page: https://scholarships.uq.edu.au/scholarship/quex-phd-scholarship
Deadline is 15th May 2025.
