The Clough Scholarship for Excellence in Marine Science supports outstanding PhD students in marine science and marine conservation who combine academic excellence with the ability to translate their research into real-world impact. Funded by the Jock Clough Marine Foundation, it is designed to back the future leaders of Australian marine research, prioritising outstanding individuals who can communicate clearly, influence outcomes beyond academia, and contribute meaningfully to the protection, restoration and understanding of Australia’s marine environment.
The Clough Scholarship for Excellence in Marine Science supports outstanding PhD students in marine science and marine conservation who combine academic excellence with the ability to translate their research into real-world impact. The scholarship is a one-off $35,000 payment direct to the student. Applications close 9th October 2026.
Citizenship
Domestic and International
Enrolment type
Full-time PhD students
Details
Support type - supplementary to existing funding Value - $35,000 single, upfront payment. Recipient Agreement and Declaration completed prior to payment.
Quantity - up to four scholarships awarded annually
Degree type and research area
Marine Science, spanning both Marine Conservation & Biodiversity, and Marine Science Research priority themes.
Eligibility
This scholarship recognises the very best doctoral researchers in marine science, giving them a career-defining uplift needed to maximise their potential as both scientists and exceptional communicators.
Open to PhD candidates enrolled full-time at any Australian university, including international students studying in Australia.
Applicants must have passed confirmation of candidature, hold base PhD funding (RTP scholarship or equivalent), and be working on a project aligned with one of the Foundation’s priority themes.
Priority Themes
Marine Conservation & Biodiversity
Marine Science Research
Recipient must maintain full-time PhD enrolment for the duration of the scholarship.
The scholarship complements, and does not replace, existing base PhD funding (RTP or equivalent).
It is not provided on condition that the recipient renders services to, or becomes and employee of, JCMF.
Recipients must notify the Jock Clough Marine Foundation promptly of any change in enrolment status or withdrawal from candidature and are subject to reporting and engagement expectations.
Enrolment is verified directly with the recipient’s university Graduate Research School.
Apply online via the Jock Clough Marine Foundation website.
Applicants without a Google account can request an alternative submission form.
Questions about this scholarship can be directed to admin@thejockcloughmarinefoundation.com.