Media releases

Gippslanders wanting to solve real-world problems in their local community can study with the support of major research scholarships at Federation University Australia. 

The University has partnered with key local industries to co-design PhD and Masters projects that help tackle the region's transition to new industries and technologies. 

Successful applicants to the four projects would each receive a tax-free stipend scholarship of $30,000 per year and have the opportunity to participate in industry-based internships, with support from both industry and leading academics in Federation’s Future Regions Research Centre. 

The projects include: 

• Looking at how the community can be involved in a thriving renewable energy sector (PhD). 
• Exploring the potential of by-products from a fish farm to be used as living fertiliser (Masters by Research) 
• Working with Traditional Owner groups to explore effective, respectful and culturally appropriate ways to connect Traditional Knowledge holders with land management practitioners (PhD). 
• Improving the quality of wood pellets by incorporating renewable by-products (Masters by Research). 

The PhD and Masters candidates will be affiliated with Federation University’s Gippsland Campus at Churchill and the new Morwell Innovation Centre. 

Applications close Sunday, 14th August 2022. For more information or to apply, visit federation.edu.au/crpg

The scholarships are funded with support from the Federal Government’s Destination Australia program which supports students to study and live in regional Australia. 

Quotes attributable to Federation University Dean of Graduate Studies, Professor Wendy Wright 

“As Gippsland’s university, we have a key role to play in the region’s economic transition, so we are partnering with industry to help find real-world solutions to local challenges.” 

“These research projects will contribute new knowledge to these sectors and help candidates to develop their research skills while gaining industry experience.” 

“The scholarships will help ease the financial burden of study and support students to stay close to family, friends and their communities.”