Addressing global problems through material design
At the Institute for Frontier Materials, our researchers are solving some of the world’s biggest challenges by using their expertise in engineering, chemistry, metallurgy, textile science and molecular modelling.
Our research is uncovering cleaner, safer energy; tackling the war on waste; reducing the harmful impacts of industries on our environment; and potentially saving billions of dollars for the global economy.
If you hope to join them as a researcher, a PhD at Deakin University’s Institute of Frontier Materials is your first step.
At IFM, you will receive excellent research training under the supervision of our world-class researchers, training that can equip you for a range of positions such as a research scientist in industry, research engineer, consultant or an academic.
Specific projects will also be listed in the 2023 project booklet (Coming October 2022).
Want to learn more about your potential supervisors? Check the about us page.
How long will it take?
At Deakin, students are expected to complete their PhD in three years (full-time study). However, because life happens and research does not always go to plan, some people need a little longer. When you enrol, your maximum candidature date is set at four years (full-time study).
Can you complete a PhD in less time?
The minimum period of candidature for a PhD is two years.However, it is very uncommon due to the volume and quality of work required to satisfy the requirements of the degree. It takes time to become an expert in your field after all!
If you are looking to undertake a similar program in just two years, consider a Master by Research at IFM (in Engineering or Science) instead. Completing a Master can be a great way to expand your research skills before committing to a PhD. It is also possible to transfer from a Master to a PhD during your candidature.
How is the degree examined?
The length of a standard PhD thesis (or dissertation) at Deakin is around 80,000 words. At IFM we also require students to complete an oral examination (similar to a defence, or Viva voce in other countries) usually completed over Zoom.
What is PhD Xtra
Deakin students benefit from an individual learning plan and additional training opportunities as part of the PhD Xtra program.
Can I get a scholarship?
Australian Government and Deakin funded scholarships are available to help pay for course fees and living costs, and a number of our projects come with externally funded scholarships. Our current project and scholarship opportunities can be found here (filter by level of study to ‘Higher Degrees Research’).
Learn more about Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) at Deakin including entry requirements, here.
