QUEX PhD Scholarship 2025: Fully Funded Joint Program at University of Queensland (Australia) & University of Exeter (UK)
Description
The QUEX PhD Scholarship 2025 is a prestigious joint research opportunity offered by The University of Queensland (UQ) and the University of Exeter. The program aims to bring together exceptional PhD candidates from across the globe to work on high-impact research projects tackling global sustainability, wellbeing, and cutting-edge technologies. This unique collaboration provides an outstanding platform for academic and professional development, with research projects spanning diverse disciplines such as healthy living, environmental futures, digital technologies, and mineral security.
The QUEX Institute invites applications for Spring 2026 PhD scholarships, and the deadline for submissions is May 15, 2025.
Scholarship Overview
The QUEX PhD Scholarship provides full funding for outstanding international PhD candidates to pursue research on a collaborative basis between two world-class universities. Successful candidates will receive:
- Annual stipend: AUD $36,400 (2025 rate), tax-free, indexed annually
- Travel and development allowance: AUD $18,000 over the course of the PhD
- Tuition fees: Covered for the duration of the PhD
- Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Provided during the stay
Additionally, recipients will have the chance to work in both the UK and Australia, spending at least 12 months at each institution and earning a joint degree from both UQ and Exeter.
Degree Level
Research Themes and Available Projects
The QUEX PhD Scholarship offers an incredible range of research themes. Selected candidates will work on projects that address major global challenges in areas such as:
UQ-based Projects:
- ML-Driven Digital Twins for Smart Tunnel Monitoring and Resilience
- Quantum Thermodynamics with Ultracold Quantum Gases
- Advanced Hazard Detection in Potable Water Sources
- Fisheries Strategies to Meet UN 30x30 Goal for Biodiversity
- Development and Evaluation of a Digital Human Exercise Coach
- Factors Influencing Menopausal Symptoms and Post-Menopausal Conditions
- Harnessing Remote Sensing for Automatic Monitoring of Pit Lakes
- Mapping the Distribution of Mineral Insecurity for Poverty Alleviation
Exeter-based Projects:
- HYPER-UQ: Hypersonic Prediction & Risk Evaluation
- Securing Computing Systems for Business Resilience in the Gen AI Era
- AMR in Food-Producing Environments
- Explainable AI for Sustainable Sewers under Climate and Urban Stress
- BIONIC – Biointegrated Optogenetic Neural Implant for Wireless Control
- Biotech Innovations to Optimise Algae for Human Nutrition
- Electrochemical Lithium Extraction (ELITE)
- Managing OHS Risks Associated with Climate Change in Australian Mines
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- All Subjects
Benefits
- Full Tuition Fees for the entire duration of the PhD
- Annual Stipend of AUD $36,400 (2025 rate)
- Travel Allowance of up to AUD $18,000
- Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the fellowship duration
- Global Research Exposure at two prestigious universities, offering opportunities for international collaboration, career networking, and skill development
Eligible Nationalities
This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the QUEX PhD Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be an international student applying to a UQ-based PhD project
- Meet the entry requirements for PhD programs at both The University of Queensland and The University of Exeter
- Be able to demonstrate outstanding academic performance
- Have the necessary research skills and passion to contribute to global sustainability and innovation
- Not already hold a PhD
- Be willing to live and study full-time at both universities for a minimum of 12 months each
Application Procedure
To apply for the QUEX PhD Scholarship:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the PhD entry requirements at both UQ and Exeter
- Choose a Project: Select one UQ-based project from the list of available research projects
- Prepare Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic transcripts
- Two reference letters
- Submit Online Application: Apply through the UQ online application system
- Scholarship Consideration: Select the QUEX Institute PhD Scholarship when applying for the UQ program, as there is no separate application for the scholarship
Key Dates
- Application Opens: April 14, 2025
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Outcomes Expected: By July 18, 2025
- PhD Program Start Date: Research Quarter 1, 2026
Selection Criteria:
The QUEX PhD Fellowship is competitive. Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence and research potential
- Alignment of the proposed research with UQ and Exeter’s academic goals
- Commitment to collaboration and contributing to global sustainability and wellbeing
- Strong recommendation letters that speak to the applicant's academic and research capabilities
Contact Information
For more details about the QUEX PhD Scholarship visit official website.
Final Thoughts
The QUEX PhD Scholarship offers a rare and prestigious opportunity for international students to pursue cutting-edge research at two top-tier universities while contributing to important global challenges. With full funding, research opportunities, and the chance to graduate with a joint degree, the QUEX program is a standout for those aiming to make a significant impact in the world of sustainability, health, and technology.
