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Quantum and Advanced Technologies PhD Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support PhD student research in quantum and advanced technology to build the pipeline of early career researchers developing new technologies while increasing the representation of underrepresented groups.

The University of Southern Queensland has research profiles in materials engineering, semiconductors, cryogenics, quantum sensing, quantum computing and space research, with physical sciences and engineering research facilities in hypersonics, advanced composites, electronics, high performance computing, and astrophysics. In addition, the university’s Springfield campus has been selected to host a new National Cryogenic Electronics Measurement Facility.

The scholarship is funded by the Queensland Government’s Quantum and Advanced Technologies Talent Building Program, whose objectives are to:

  • contribute to and strengthen participation of students in quantum and advanced technologies, particularly those who identify as women, are non-binary, are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, or are from regional areas
  • train a new generation of PhD students into excellent quantum researchers capable of being pioneers in this emerging discipline
  • build technology capability and skills across a range of fields
  • improve translation and commercialisation skills
  • foster collaboration across academia and industry.

Project Options: The University of Southern Queensland’s key strengths in Agriculture and Environment, Health, Space & Defence, and Regional Development provide a range of opportunities for PhD study, and with the choice of PhD student research supported by this scholarship comprising one of the following topics:

  • High-performance semiconductor nano-sensors at low temperatures
  • Advanced quantum thermal technology
  • Advanced cryogenic measurement for quantum device development
  • Creating atom sensors to date ground water
  • Quantum meets space research
  • An educational model to engage students in quantum technologies
  • Investing in commercial quantum computing
You can view full project descriptions here.
Value
  • Award duration: 4 years full time, or equivalent part-time duration
  • Stipend (p.a.): $45,000 ($180,000 over four years)
  • Translation and development allowance (p.a.) to support students to build skills in research translation and/or commercialisation. Eligible expenses include research costs, training, and career development activities.: $5,000 (up to a maximum of $15,000)
  • Travel allowance for conference attendance or to visit a relevant industry/research venue. Eligible costs include reasonable airfare and accommodation incidental costs related to travel: $5,000
  • Total maximum award value per student: $200,000
  • Note: Periods of study already undertaken towards the degree will be deducted from the period of tenure.

To be eligible applicants must:

  • have completed an Honours Degree with First Class or 2A Honours, or equivalent level, or a Master’s degree with a significant research component
  • be accepted into, or currently enrolled in the PhD program at UniSQ
  • not be receiving equivalent support providing a benefit greater than 75% of the student’s stipend rate
  • be eligible to commence or continue PhD studies in 2025
  • be able to study on campus at Toowoomba, Ipswich or Springfield

To be eligible applicants must:   

  • have completed an Honours Degree with First Class or 2A Honours, or equivalent level, or a Master’s degree with a significant research component, and in Physics, or Engineering, or a discipline closely related to one of the stated PhD topics
  • be able to study full-time on-campus at Springfield, Toowoomba, or Ipswich
  • do research relevant to the program focus on quantum and advanced technology
  • do research relevant to at least one of the stated PhD project topics

To apply, please ensure you have digital copies of the below information:

  • Curriculum vitae; encompassing any research presentations and/or publications
  • Preliminary Research Thesis Topic Proposal 
  • Education qualifications (testamur and academic transcripts for all undergraduate and postgraduate awards,

Applicants must have their current/prospective supervisor complete the Supervisor support letter.

Application must be made via the UniSQ Scholarship Application Management System by the closing date.

If you require assistance in completing your application please download the Scholarship Online Application Manual.  

Applications closed.

Further information about this scholarship can be obtained from Professor Robert Sang by emailing Robert.Sang@unisq.edu.au or Professor Brad Carter by emailing Brad.Carter@unisq.edu.au