Graduate research at the School of Chemistry
Learn under the guidance of world-leading staff to pursue a career in research or academia in your area of interest.
Why research with us?
The School of Chemistry has 27 continuing teaching and research staff and over 50 research-only staff, supported by technical and administrative personnel. The School hosts in excess of 150 higher degree research students, an excellent international reputation in research and an outstanding record of achievement in attracting external research funding.
Our Graduate Research degrees
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Doctor of Philosophy (Science)
A PhD is an essential qualification for a research career in chemistry. Many of our graduates go on to work as postdoctoral research scientists and careers in research and teaching in academia, or move into industry where their technical and professional skills are highly valued.
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Master of Philosophy (Science)
Join one of our world-renowned research groups, work with state-of-the-art equipment, and soak up all the professional development opportunities and international connections that come with studying at Australia's leading university.
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Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry)
If you’re keen to work in industry-based chemistry research, perhaps designing new-generation materials or bringing new pharmaceuticals to market, then start with a graduate course where you spend most of your time working in industry – and getting paid to do it.
Getting started in graduate research
Once you know the Graduate Research degree you want to pursue, you need to find a researcher, group or project to work with while pursuing your degree. 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
There is a wide range of research being performed across our School – explore the Our research page to learn more about the projects and supervisors you could join. Send a prospective supervisor a message on their Find an Expert profile and explain what you'd like to do.
Option 2: Find a graduate research project
The University's Graduate Research Opportunity Tool is a directory of PhD and Masters by Research projects – search by course, field of research or location to find a research project that you're excited to join. Send a prospective supervisor a message on their Find an Expert profile and explain what you'd like to do.
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.
They will consider your past academic performance and whether there is an available project that fits with your background and area of interest.
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. 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?
We welcome general inquiries from graduates interested in undertaking postgraduate study – either call us on +61 3 9035 6459 or email the Graduate Research support team.