Graduate research in BioSciences
Build your research career and become an expert in your field with a biological science research project.
Why research with us?
The School of BioSciences is a leading international research centre attracting world-renowned experts, who collaborate with institutions and industry to cement Australia’s global standing in research areas of national priority. As such, our students are fully supported to undertake research in areas such as: animal behaviour, biotechnology, genetics, computational biology, plant science, ecology, environmental science, evolutionary biology, marine biology, reproductive biology and zoology.
PhD graduates go on to work as academic researchers, biotechnologists, ecologists, geneticists, policy analysts – just to name a few. They find rewarding careers in research institutions such as the CSIRO, government organisations such as EPA and Museums Victoria, or even commercial sectors such as the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and resource industries.
Our Graduate Research degrees
-
Doctor of Philosophy (Science)
The Doctor of Philosophy (Science) is an essential qualification for a research career in the biological sciences. Take the opportunity to complete a project within Australia or overseas, supported by world-renowned research groups, facilities and infrastructure at the School of BioSciences.
-
Master of Philosophy (Science)
For students seeking an introduction to university-based research, the Master of Philosophy (Science) provides opportunity to work with our expert research community and state-of-the-art facilities. Students will be able to conduct their own independent research and contribute to an area they’re passionate about.
Getting started in graduate research
Throughout your PhD, you'll be guided by a supervisor who is an expert in their field – so the first thing you need to do is find a researcher, group or project to work with. There are two great ways to find your passion and a supervisor or group to help you reach it:
Option 1: Explore our research groups
Our school is home to many world-renowned experts carrying out groundbreaking research in a broad range of fields. Once you've found something you're excited about, follow the links to a potential supervisor's Find an Expert profile and send them a message.
Option 2: Discover our research opportunities
Explore the supervisors and research projects that are currently available for PhD, Masters and Honours students. Once you've found something you're excited about, follow the links to a potential supervisor's Find an Expert profile and send them a message.
What do I say to a prospective supervisor?
You need the written support of a supervisor before submitting an application to the University. Once you've found a prospective supervisor, contact them with the following documents and information:
- Your curriculum vitae (CV)
- All higher education transcripts
- A brief summary of your intended area of research
- The names of at least two prospective supervisors in their team that align with your intended area of research.
They will consider your past academic performance and whether there is someone in their team available to supervise your study.
Scholarships and fees
Most domestic and international students who are offered a PhD place with us will also be offered a Graduate Research Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship means you’ll pay no tuition fees, and you’ll also receive a living allowance and relocation grant (if relocating to Melbourne). When you apply for a PhD with us, you’ll be automatically considered for a Graduate Research Scholarship. There’s no need to apply separately.
A huge variety of other scholarships are also available. Search our scholarships to find the ones you’re eligible for.
Need advice or help getting started?
Before getting in touch, please read this page and the information available for the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) carefully. If you have further questions, email the Graduate Research team.