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Step 2: Find a Research Project and Supervisor

Identifying a research project and supervisor that aligns with your interests and ways of working is critical to your success as a HDR candidate.

Find a Research Project

We have a range of advertised research project opportunities that align with our research priorities, expertise, scholarships (see Step 3) and industry partners. There are two main ways to find a research project:

  • Projects linked to a current scholarship round are listed here. There are two of these scholarship rounds per year. Please note that this page is only available during open scholarship rounds.
  • Other projects are advertised by Schools throughout the year and are available here.

Find a research project that interests you and contact the nominated supervisor to discuss further, including any project-specific selection criteria and scholarship availability.

Find a Supervisor

Alternatively, you may already have your own research ideas. If so, find a supervisor with compatible research interests with whom you would like to discuss potential opportunities. If you need assistance to find a suitable supervisor, see the key staff contact list at the bottom of this page. When contacting a potential supervisor, be sure to include a copy of your CV and academic transcripts.

All applicants are required to discuss key aspects of their application with their proposed supervisor, such as the proposed research, available resourcing, your capability to undertake an HDR course, next steps, and the development of a research proposal.

Please note: If applying in the School of Nursing and Midwifery you may not be required to find a suitable supervisor before submitting an application for a HDR course.

Tips for success

Many supervisors receive copious emails from hopeful applicants. Genuine emails from passionate and informed applicants who have done their research stand out from pro forma and AI-generated emails. You are more likely to get a response if you demonstrate the relevance of your project or research interest.

Discover more about our world-class research, including our Strategic Research Institutes and Centres and Industry Engagement.

Need further help finding a research project or supervisor?

We suggest reading Steps 1-3 of this guide for a big picture understanding of the process that will help to refine your questions.

Key staff contacts

Your enrolled school will provide you with a range of support, services and resources throughout the duration of your degree. This will include HDR supervision and assistance with the allocation of office space, specialised equipment, laboratories, and relevant research funding (if provided).

It is strongly recommended that you contact your Supervisor and relevant Course Coordinator to discuss the support provided by the School. In addition, you may contact the Associate Dean of Research within your relevant School should you need.

School HDR Course Coordinators

HDR Director

School Associate Deans (Research)

Be part of the University’s research themes

ECU research focuses on four themes that recognise both our collective expertise and our progressive view of the world. Explore our world-class research and strategic research institutes and centres.

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