PhD Opportunity - Indigenous (Energy)

Job Details Job No.:

685291

Faculty:

Faculty of Information Technology, Monash Business School and Faculty of Engineering

Location:

Caulfield or Clayton campuses

Duration:

3.5-year fixed-term appointment

Institute:

Monash Energy Institute

Open to:

People who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and whose PhD research will advance First Nations’ peoples interests in the Australian energy transition

Positions Available:

Three

Remuneration & Scholarships The successful applicant will receive a Monash Indigenous Research Scholarship with the following support:

$52,352 per annum (tax‑free stipend)

Additional $8,000 pa top‑up stipend

$4,000 for research costs such as fieldwork or conference participation

Monash Graduate Research Office Travel Grant (up to $1,265)

Relocation Allowance (up to $1,000 if relocating from interstate)

Living Allowance: $52,352 pa 2025 full‑time rate (tax‑free stipend), annually indexed plus allowances as per RTP/MGRO stipend conditions

Additional Support

Additional support from the Monash Energy Institute

Ongoing guidance from the Indigenous Research Team (Indigenous@monash.edu)

The Opportunity Monash Energy Institute and its three sponsoring faculties invite Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applications for a fully funded, 3.5‑year PhD scholarship commencing in 2026. The scholarship provides a stipend of $52,352 per annum (tax exempt) plus additional support.

The Monash Energy Institute is driving Australia’s transition to a sustainable, people‑centred energy future through interdisciplinary research. PhD candidates will be supervised by academics in one of its three faculties and will benefit from a supportive Indigenous staff network.

Knowledge and Background Applicants should have strong knowledge in a discipline or background that supports the proposed project (e.g., human‑centred computing/computer science, engineering, social science, science, community development). Commitment to research that supports First Nations people and communities in accessing and realizing the benefits of the energy transition is required.

Suggested PhD Topics

Realising energy justice for First Nations communities through various energy systems (renewables, diesel genset options, community‑scale renewable systems), housing types, and ownership models

Exploring the impacts of prepayment meters in remote communities and identifying alternatives

Investigating health‑related impacts of energy insecurity, including thermally inefficient housing, inconsistent refrigeration, and high occupancy of dwellings

Supporting Indigenous people in accessing, operating, maintaining, and caring for consumer energy resources (solar, batteries), energy‑efficient equipment, and local energy solutions; exploring supply chain and maintenance pathways for remote Australia

Bringing Indigenous futures perspectives and knowledge systems into visions and scenarios for the energy transition

Mapping/visualising Indigenous knowledge of climate and weather to support energy forecasting and planning

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems and their application in research and innovative, participatory methodologies.

Candidate Requirements This scholarship opportunity is open to domestic applicants who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

The selection committee will evaluate applicants holistically and prioritise First Nations applicants with research and/or professional experience and a strong academic track record in a relevant discipline or interdisciplinary area. Applicants will be considered if they fulfil the criteria for PhD admission at Monash University.

Enquiries

Indigenous Research Project Manager, Jess Walters – Indigenous@monash.edu

Monash Energy Institute Research Director, Professor Yolande Strengers – yolande.strengers@monash.edu

Expression of Interest Submission EOIs should include the following:

Completed HDR Expression of Interest Form

Cover letter

Evidence of academic transcripts and qualifications

Curriculum vitae, including a list of any published works

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed, over Zoom if necessary.

Closing date for receipt of EOIs:

Open until positions are filled. Early applications are strongly encouraged as assessment will occur on an ongoing basis.

Supporting a diverse workforce Monash University recognises that its Australian campuses are located on the unceded lands of the people of the Kulin nations, and pays its respects to their elders, past and present.

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