{"id":28781,"date":"2025-08-08T13:23:08","date_gmt":"2025-08-08T05:23:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/?post_type=advice&#038;p=28781"},"modified":"2025-08-08T13:23:12","modified_gmt":"2025-08-08T05:23:12","slug":"transform-your-passion-into-real-world-impact-with-a-higher-degree-by-research","status":"publish","type":"advice","link":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/advice\/transform-your-passion-into-real-world-impact-with-a-higher-degree-by-research\/","title":{"rendered":"Transform your passion into real-world impact with a Higher Degree by Research\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Do you dream of designing sustainable cities, discovering medical breakthroughs, preserving cultural heritage or shaping the future of technology? <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"difference\">A Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at Curtin is more than just a qualification \u2013 it\u2019s an opportunity to explore your passion in depth and make bold and innovative discoveries. At Curtin, you\u2019ll be supported to go beyond the expected and turn your research into practical outcomes that are valued by academia, industry and society.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#difference-courses\">What\u2019s the difference between a PhD, Master of Research and Master by Coursework?\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#global\">Make a global impact<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#support\">Support to help you succeed\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#fund\">Fund your research with an RTP Scholarship\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Join Australia\u2019s brightest research minds&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (ARWU 2024), Curtin is globally recognised for high-impact research across a wide range of fields including:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udda4 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udf31 Agriculture and environment&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\uddec Biomedical and clinical science&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\udd16 Data science, machine learning and AI&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfe5 Healthy communities&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f National resilience and security&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u26cf\ufe0f Resources, mining and critical minerals&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\ude80 Space&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfd7\ufe0f Structural engineering and monitoring&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd0b Sustainability and energy transition&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83c\udfa7 <strong>Listen in:<\/strong> Hear Curtin PhD student Anthony Clarke and Professor Chris Kirkland discuss their remarkable discovery about Stonehenge\u2019s Altar Stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-spotify wp-block-embed-spotify wp-embed-aspect-21-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Spotify Embed: Stonehenge | Anthony Clarke &amp; Prof Chris Kirkland\" style=\"border-radius: 12px\" width=\"100%\" height=\"152\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen allow=\"autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/embed\/episode\/2C7N55BtJICIul2RKG1QPz?si=149af4ed4ef34698&#038;utm_source=oembed\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shape your future through research&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Our HDR students work on projects that matter \u2013 across health, business, science, technology, social change, environment, education and the arts.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a Curtin HDR candidate, you\u2019ll gain access to cutting-edge facilities, world-class supervisors, and a vibrant, supportive research community.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might be:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\uddec <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/healthsciences\/health-sciences-research\/our-research\/biomedical-clinical-science\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">developing cancer therapies or new mental health treatments<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udf0f <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/research-areas\/agriculture-and-environment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">addressing climate change, water security or biodiversity loss&nbsp;<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\udd16 <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/research-areas\/data-science-machine-learning-and-ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">driving AI innovation in automation, education or sustainability<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2696\ufe0f <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/research-areas\/business-society-and-community\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">exploring gender equity, social change or global migration<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\ude90 <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/research-areas\/space\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">advancing space exploration, planetary science or deep space communication<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u26cf\ufe0f <a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/research-areas\/resources-mining-and-minerals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">innovating in mining and critical mineral exploration<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Wherever your research takes you \u2013 into a lab, on Country, at a hospital, in an archive, or onto the global stage \u2013 you&#8217;ll build deep expertise, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to projects that make a real impact.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Curious about what our PhD students are working on?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/aGe-bhzT12I?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From electrical engineering to neurosurgical innovation&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For Curtin PhD candidate <strong>Essam Morsy<\/strong>, studying electronics and electrical engineering has opened unexpected doors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While developing a microwave absorber with the Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy, Essam discovered new challenges \u2013 and opportunities \u2013 through an industry internship at Neurospheric, a startup focused on brain tumour treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"testimonial-single\">\n    \n            <div class=\"block testimonial testimonial--image\"  data-segment=\"dom\">\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__image\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Essam-photo-CIRA-610.jpg\"\n                         alt=\"Essam Morsay profile picture\">\n                <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"testimonial__content\">\n            <span class=\"ico ico-quotes ico--lime\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 32 32\"><path d=\"M8.44 16a5.7 5.7 0 0 0-1.67.2c.59-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L9.12 3.2C3.73 7 0 13.11 0 19.87c0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93a6.67 6.67 0 0 0 6.67-6.67A5.83 5.83 0 0 0 8.44 16zM26.21 16a5.67 5.67 0 0 0-1.66.2c.58-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L26.9 3.2c-5.4 3.8-9.12 9.91-9.12 16.67 0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93A6.67 6.67 0 0 0 32 22.13 5.84 5.84 0 0 0 26.21 16z\"\/><\/svg><\/span>\n                            <h4 class=\"testimonial__meta\"><\/h4>\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__testimonial small\"><p>\u201cMy internship has introduced me to the new and equally challenging field of neurosurgical devices, where I\u2019ve been able to apply my technical expertise in a real-world medical setting. For any PhD student considering an industry internship, I highly recommend it. This incredible experience has strengthened my problem-solving skills, expanded my professional network&#8230; and given me the confidence to apply my knowledge to real-world challenges.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"difference-courses\">What\u2019s the difference between a PhD, Master of Research and Master by Coursework?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re thinking about continuing your studies, you might be wondering what kind of postgraduate degree is right for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick guide to the most common research pathways:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf93 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A PhD is ideal if you want to make a significant original contribution to knowledge in your field. This degree typically takes three to four years full time to complete (or longer if studied part time). You\u2019ll undertake independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors and produce a substantial thesis. Entry usually requires a Master by Research or a bachelor degree with first or upper-second class honours.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/study\/search\/?search_text=doctor%20of%20philosophy\">Browse PhD programs at Curtin<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Why pursue a PhD?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Ok8_J8Fo4q0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>\ud83d\udcd8 <\/em><\/strong>Master of Research&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Master by Research is a great stepping stone into academic or research careers, or as preparation for a PhD. Typically completed over two years full time, this degree is largely research-based and supervised, similar to a PhD, but it involves a shorter final thesis. It\u2019s a great option if you\u2019ve completed a bachelor degree \u2013 often with honours \u2013 or have relevant professional experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/students\/essentials\/higher-degree-by-research\/starting-your-hdr-course\/mres\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\ud83d\udcda <\/strong>Master by Coursework&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Master by Coursework is quite different from a research degree \u2013 it&#8217;s more structured and designed to deepen your knowledge and skills in a specific professional area. You\u2019ll complete a set of units or subjects, similar to undergraduate study, and while some degrees may include a research component or final project, the focus is not on independent research. This pathway is ideal if you\u2019re looking to advance in your current career, upskill, or switch to a new field.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/study\/postgraduate-by-coursework\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore our postgraduate by coursework degrees<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested in exploring your options further? Discover all our research degrees \u2013 including our collaborative PhD program and Doctor of Business Administration \u2013 and find the pathway that\u2019s right for you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/study\/higher-degree-by-research\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Browse all research degrees.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your experience matters&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"645\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Marketing_Design-Team_Course-Guide-Cover_Photoshoot_2023_V1-5568x3712-3-1000x645.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-28802\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At Curtin, we\u2019re keen to work with people from all walks of life. Our HDR community comprises engineers, educators, artists, scientists, community leaders, and entrepreneurs \u2013 united by a drive to create meaningful change. From shaping policy on climate resilience and launching biotech startups, to advancing First Nations health initiatives and contributing to space exploration, our researchers are making an impact across diverse fields.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hear from public health PhD student Liyuwork Dana who is developing an index to map the location and extent of food insecurity among Australian households:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Liyuwork - Public Health PHD student\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/V7txl4wPBxw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, researcher and proud Arabana woman Dr Teagan Shields is helping <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/caring-for-country\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">lay the groundwork<\/a> for a legacy where Indigenous knowledge is integral to environmental policy and practice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>\u201cThere\u2019s this assumption that Western science alone holds all the answers, but Indigenous people and knowledge have been caring for Country for thousands of years. Our knowledge has stood the test of time and it shouldn\u2019t need to be validated through a Western lens to be taken seriously. That\u2019s what I\u2019m hoping to achieve through my research.\u201d&nbsp;<br><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dr-Shields-with-Esperance-Noongar-Senior-knowledge-Holders-1-1000x500-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-28804\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dr-Shields-with-Esperance-Noongar-Senior-knowledge-Holders-1-1000x500-1-1.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dr-Shields-with-Esperance-Noongar-Senior-knowledge-Holders-1-1000x500-1-1-740x370.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dr-Shields-with-Esperance-Noongar-Senior-knowledge-Holders-1-1000x500-1-1-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dr-Shields-with-Esperance-Noongar-Senior-knowledge-Holders-1-1000x500-1-1-480x240.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Dr Shields with Esperance Noongar Senior knowledge Holders sharing plant knowledge.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"global\">Make a global impact&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Our research degrees offer you opportunities to engage with real-world challenges, both in Australia and abroad. By working closely with our industry partners and startups, you \u2018ll have the chance to conduct research that addresses pressing local and global issues and gain invaluable practical experience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clinical and academic pharmacist Dr Mustafa Atee is a co-inventor of PainChek, an AI-assisted pain assessment tool that evaluates the presence and intensity of pain in non-verbal adults. PainChek was the result of his PhD research at Curtin where he explored improving pain management among patients with dementia. The tool is now widely used in healthcare and has facilitated more than 10 million clinical assessments in aged care, across more than 1,800 facilities worldwide.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"A leader in innovation, research and technology: Dr Mustafa Atee\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gfMZNnhlQDw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Melissa Papini<\/strong>, a Curtin and Perron Institute PhD candidate is exploring brain injury and mental health through her laboratory work and internship with mental health clinic Sherpah. She says the internship has given her unique business insights and the chance to present her work to industry professionals in Australia and London.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"testimonial-single\">\n    \n            <div class=\"block testimonial testimonial--image\"  data-segment=\"dom\">\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__image\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Melissa-Papini_Picture2-1-aspect-ratio-100-100.jpg\"\n                         alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"testimonial__content\">\n            <span class=\"ico ico-quotes ico--lime\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 32 32\"><path d=\"M8.44 16a5.7 5.7 0 0 0-1.67.2c.59-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L9.12 3.2C3.73 7 0 13.11 0 19.87c0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93a6.67 6.67 0 0 0 6.67-6.67A5.83 5.83 0 0 0 8.44 16zM26.21 16a5.67 5.67 0 0 0-1.66.2c.58-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L26.9 3.2c-5.4 3.8-9.12 9.91-9.12 16.67 0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93A6.67 6.67 0 0 0 32 22.13 5.84 5.84 0 0 0 26.21 16z\"\/><\/svg><\/span>\n                            <h4 class=\"testimonial__meta\"><\/h4>\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__testimonial small\"><p>\u201cOne of the highlights of my internship at Sherpah was being selected to write an abstract based on our work for the Clinical TMS Society Annual Meeting. I was fortunate enough to be chosen to present this abstract at a conference in London which was incredibly rewarding and has further fuelled my passion for research in this field.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve also had the opportunity to present my research findings to nurses, clinicians, and allied health professionals at the mental health unit in Fremantle Hospital. This experience has allowed me to receive valuable feedback and insights from those working directly in the field. I\u2019ve connected with clinicians interested in both my internship research and also the work I am doing for my PhD.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n<p>Curtin HDR student <strong>Jordan Fyfe<\/strong> is researching disability in the arts. Supported by a Curtin HDR Internship, she chose to head overseas to work at the Glasgow Women\u2019s Library, using co-design with disabled artists to build community.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"testimonial-single\">\n    \n            <div class=\"block testimonial testimonial--image\"  data-segment=\"dom\">\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__image\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Jordan-Fyfe-1-aspect-ratio-100-100.jpg\"\n                         alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"testimonial__content\">\n            <span class=\"ico ico-quotes ico--lime\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 32 32\"><path d=\"M8.44 16a5.7 5.7 0 0 0-1.67.2c.59-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L9.12 3.2C3.73 7 0 13.11 0 19.87c0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93a6.67 6.67 0 0 0 6.67-6.67A5.83 5.83 0 0 0 8.44 16zM26.21 16a5.67 5.67 0 0 0-1.66.2c.58-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L26.9 3.2c-5.4 3.8-9.12 9.91-9.12 16.67 0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93A6.67 6.67 0 0 0 32 22.13 5.84 5.84 0 0 0 26.21 16z\"\/><\/svg><\/span>\n                            <h4 class=\"testimonial__meta\"><\/h4>\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__testimonial small\"><p>\u201cMy internship has been incredibly varied &#8230; [it] has opened my eyes to the possibilities of future work in my field. I have been involved in many small projects as well as a few longer-term projects. Although I have had some outcomes, the aim of the internship was not to produce outcomes but instead to immerse myself in the day-to-day experience of working with an activism-focused organisation.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"support\">Support to help you succeed&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At Curtin, we\u2019re here to help you achieve your goals. We can work with you to help you balance your work, life and internship commitments.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Melissa describes how she balances her PhD research alongside her internship:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"testimonial-single\">\n    \n            <div class=\"block testimonial testimonial--image\"  data-segment=\"dom\">\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__image\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Melissa-Papini_Picture2-1-aspect-ratio-100-100-1.jpg\"\n                         alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"testimonial__content\">\n            <span class=\"ico ico-quotes ico--lime\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 32 32\"><path d=\"M8.44 16a5.7 5.7 0 0 0-1.67.2c.59-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L9.12 3.2C3.73 7 0 13.11 0 19.87c0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93a6.67 6.67 0 0 0 6.67-6.67A5.83 5.83 0 0 0 8.44 16zM26.21 16a5.67 5.67 0 0 0-1.66.2c.58-3.34 3.92-7.36 7.06-9.22L26.9 3.2c-5.4 3.8-9.12 9.91-9.12 16.67 0 5.69 3.53 8.93 7.55 8.93A6.67 6.67 0 0 0 32 22.13 5.84 5.84 0 0 0 26.21 16z\"\/><\/svg><\/span>\n                            <h4 class=\"testimonial__meta\"><\/h4>\n                                        <div class=\"testimonial__testimonial small\"><p>\u201cAfter meeting with the team at Sherpah and my [Curtin] PhD supervisors, we decided upon a flexible arrangement in which some weeks I would work for two to three days on my internship and other weeks I would work solely on internship work or my PhD, depending on the commitments required by each. This flexibility meant that I was able to balance my workload while still progressing in both endeavours.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n<p>Alongside the flexibility to balance your research with other commitments, Curtin also offers a range of scholarships, including the Research Training Program Scholarship, to help financially support your goals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fund\">Fund your research with an RTP Scholarship&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Curtin PhD candidate Ashley Rogers said receiving the Australian-Government funded RTP Scholarship has made a big difference.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>\u201cReceiving the RTP scholarship was a wonderful feeling as I was not sure how I would be able to support myself during my PhD. Having the stipend (along with the additional funds from my research group) has enabled me to live a comfortable life within the first year and a half of my PhD.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve been thinking about pursuing a career in research, applications for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/study\/higher-degree-by-research\/rtp-scholarship\/\">Research Training Program Scholarships<\/a> are now open. You\u2019ll need to submit your application by <strong>18 August 2025.<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These competitive scholarships provide:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>tuition-fee support&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a tax-free stipend to support your living costs&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>access to training, development, and research support resources.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The table below details the current and past stipend rates: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"305\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-14-135014-1000x305.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-28876\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">&nbsp;<em>Source: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.education.gov.au\/research-block-grants\/research-training-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>https:\/\/www.education.gov.au\/research-block-grants\/research-training-program<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>RTP Scholarships are available for a minimum of three years and up to four years if you&#8217;re studying full-time, or between six and eight years if you&#8217;re studying part-time.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re enrolling in a research master&#8217;s degree, RTP scholarships can support you for up to two years full-time or up to four years if you choose to study part-time.*&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>*Please note: eligibility criteria applies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to apply&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"648\" src=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/University-Marketing_Research-Photoshoot_photos_2021_v1-2-1000x648.gif\" alt=\"Researcher conducting experiment.\" class=\"wp-image-28798\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two different ways to apply for an RTP scholarship at Curtin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Apply for an approved HDR project<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Curtin offers a broad range of HDR project opportunities aligned to national priorities and global needs. This is a great pathway if you\u2019re looking to contribute to existing high-impact research.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/higher-degree-by-research\/higher-degree-by-research-project-opportunities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Browse all available HDR projects<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Submit your own research idea<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have your own burning idea, based on your professional interests, previous study or personal passion, connect with one of our researchers to support your application for an RTP scholarship.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/research.curtin.edu.au\/our-researchers\/?query=&amp;type=supervisors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Find a researcher<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whichever path you choose, our friendly team at the Graduate Research School can help guide you through the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Email:<\/strong> roc.grs@curtin.edu.au &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ready to start your research career?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>RTP Scholarships are only open for a limited time until<strong> 18 August 2025<\/strong>. If you\u2019re excited to bring your research to life, don&#8217;t miss your chance to apply.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/study\/higher-degree-by-research\/rtp-scholarship\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at Curtin is more than just a qualification \u2013 it\u2019s an opportunity to explore your passion in depth and make bold and innovative discoveries.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2670,"featured_media":28809,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"4751,6760,6109,4822,4819,5725","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[211,446],"class_list":["post-28781","advice","type-advice","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-research","tag-research","tag-scholarships"],"acf":{"post_options":{"":null,"additional_content":{"title":"","content":"","image":false},"related_courses":[{"title":"","qualification":"","link":"","description":"","faculty":""}],"credits":{"author":"","photographer":"","media":false},"display_author":true,"banner":{"image":false}}},"featured_image":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Jordan-Fyfe-1-1000x646.jpg","author_meta":{"first_name":"Anne","last_name":"Griffin-Appadoo","display_name":"Anne Griffin-Appadoo"},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice\/28781","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/advice"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2670"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/advice\/28781\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/28809"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28781"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28781"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curtin.edu.au\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28781"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}