Research internships

A Higher Degree by Research student is enrolled in either a Master by Research or a PhD degree. These students have achieved excellence in their undergraduate (Bachelor) degree and are embarking on a research career. By undertaking a Higher Degree by Research, students develop their research skills by designing and delivering a research project which creates new knowledge or applies existing knowledge to new problems.  Our HDR students work under the supervision of at least two leading academics at our university and are well supported by university resources, including laboratories, the library, etc.  

Rather than participate in Co-op placements, HDR students can undertake a minimum 60-day (full-time equivalent) research internship.  HDR students work with you on the output, outcome or result you need for your organisation. HDR research internships differ from undergraduate student placements in that the student is funded by an internship stipend paid via the University rather than directly employed by you/the industry partner. This can have tax advantages for both the student and the industry partner (via R&D tax incentives from the government).  

Our HDR students are emerging thought leaders in our community. They have new ideas, are exposed to the latest information and technologies, and have enormous drive and enthusiasm. They can make a real difference in your organisation and can be tasked to solve large or small problems. 

During a research internship, a HDR student spends a minimum of 60 days on a well-defined project, usually aligned to an area of their research expertise. By contrast, a research project is much longer-term (18 months – 2 years for a Master and 3-3.5 years for a PhD) and is suited to solving more complex problems and/or creating new knowledge. For both the research internship and the research project, a research agreement between the industry partner and the university is negotiated to ensure clarity around financial contributions and expected outcomes. 

Your organisation can co-design and co-deliver a research project, in partnership with the University. This would require a time commitment from your organisation for the release of an appropriately qualified and experienced staff member to participate in development and ongoing delivery of the research project as a member of the student’s supervisory team. 

Co-funding involves your organisation providing cash or in-kind contributions towards the support of a HDR research project, which is focussed on a research question that is co-designed by your organisation and leading academics from the university. Cash contributions are generally via stipend (living allowance) scholarships but can also include internship stipends, project consumables, research equipment, and operating costs such as travel and accommodation. A research agreement between the industry partner and the university is negotiated to ensure clarity around financial contributions.