Research Students
Why ECU?
Research focus
ECU's world-class research
Our researchers are making world-first breakthroughs in a diverse range of fields.
These include discoveries in areas such as medical and health sciences, marine science, cyber security, green energy and mechanical engineering.
To find out more, visit our world class research website.
Research projects for students
ECU's eight schools are looking for prospective Honours, Masters by research, or PhD students to undertake research projects on particular topics.
These may be individual projects, or collaborations with other institutions or industry partners. In some cases, the projects may also include funding opportunities such as scholarships.
Find out more about research project opportunities in ECU schools.
What's your research dream?
If you're interested in a research degree, we'd first like to know more about you - including your research topic.
When you start the application process, we'll ask you for:
- information about your work, academic history and qualifications
- references from any publications or conference papers you've co-authored
- a 300-word research abstract and a 2-page research proposal
If this information is assessed favourably, your application will progress to the next stage and we'll ask you for some more information.
Courses
If you're looking to be involved at the cutting edge of your field, our research degrees provide a stimulating intellectual challenge.
For your research degree you'll be expected to produce a written body of researched work, called a thesis.
If your degree is in a creative discipline, you may produce a creative work plus an exegesis (written exploration of your work).
Degrees of support
We have unique and innovative programs to support you through your research degree.
Here's a snapshot of what you can expect:
- an orientation program and events to help you get started;
- an extensive cross-discipline research training program;
- discipline-specific training and research forums run by your school or research centre;
- special seminars with guest presenters;
- fully-funded annual writing retreat;
- travel grants for international research placements;
- an inter-university research training conference; and
- support for planning your career beyond your research degree.
Need some help deciding what to study?
Our future student events include a mix of on-campus and online sessions designed to help you decide what to study at ECU.
School Research Centres and Supervisors
To give you an idea of the research we're undertaking across our schools, including leading researcher profiles, download one or more of these brochures.
Become World Ready
Experience Research at ECU.
World Class research
ECU has a vibrant research community, committed to supporting students on their research journey.
We provide dedicated staff and support services for postgraduate research, including school research and writing consultants, research and higher degrees staff, a research ethics team and specialist librarians.
"Without having the team of SOAR Ambassadors to draw on, I would have thrown in the towel within the first semester. They have been brilliant! Patient, tolerant of my technological challenges and always available when I needed them."
Graduate Research School

Janice Du Preez
PhD candidate
School of Medical & Health Sciences