Summary
The Applied Doctorates Scheme (ADS) offers candidates the opportunity to undertake applied doctoral research through participating host universities in New Zealand. The scheme is designed for applicants who want to develop advanced research expertise while working on projects aligned with their academic background, research interests, and long-term career goals.
Applicants may apply for more than one project, provided they meet the eligibility requirements of the relevant host university. Each project requires a separate Expression of Interest (EoI).
Designation
Applied Doctorates Scheme (ADS) – Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate
Research Area
Research areas vary according to the available ADS projects and host universities. Applicants should select projects that match their academic qualifications, research experience, skills, and career objectives.
Potential applicants should carefully review the individual project descriptions and the specific eligibility requirements of the host university.
Location
New Zealand
Projects are hosted by participating New Zealand universities. Additional admission requirements apply to projects hosted by the University of Auckland.
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should:
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s qualification (e.g., BSc, BSc (Hons), MSc) appropriate to the selected doctoral project.
- Meet the academic eligibility requirements of the host university and selected project.
- Meet the required English language proficiency standards of the host university.
- Demonstrate relevant research experience where required or applicable.
- Have relevant knowledge of research methodologies associated with the selected project.
- Provide academic transcripts and other required supporting documents.
- International applicants must confirm whether they currently have the right to study in New Zealand and provide visa details where applicable.
- Applicants should ensure that their qualifications and experience meet the requirements of each project they apply for.
Job / Research Description
Successful candidates will undertake doctoral-level applied research within their selected ADS project and host university.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Relevant academic preparation for the proposed research.
- Previous scientific research experience, where applicable.
- Familiarity with research methodologies relevant to the project.
- A clear understanding of how the doctoral project supports their career goals.
- Strong motivation to participate in the Applied Doctorates Scheme.
- The ability to communicate their research interests and experience clearly through a concise Expression of Interest.
Candidates may apply for multiple projects, but each application should be tailored to the specific research project and highlight the applicant’s strengths and relevant experience.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents in PDF format:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – named
ADS_CV_YourName - Academic transcripts from the qualifying programme
- Expression of Interest (EoI) – maximum 300 words per project
The EoI should explain:
- Why the applicant is interested in the Applied Doctorates Scheme.
- How the selected project aligns with their career goals.
- What relevant skills, research experience, and expertise they can contribute.
Applicants applying for multiple projects should submit a separate EoI for each project.
How to Apply
- Review the available ADS doctoral projects and identify projects matching your academic background and career objectives.
- Check the specific eligibility requirements of the relevant host university.
- Complete the ADS online application with accurate personal, academic, and research information.
- Upload your CV, academic transcripts, and project-specific Expression(s) of Interest in PDF format.
- Review the complete application carefully before submission.
- Submit the application before the deadline published on the Applied Doctorates Scheme website.
Additional Requirement – University of Auckland Projects
Applicants applying for projects hosted by the University of Auckland must first apply for admission through the University of Auckland application portal.
Applicants must:
- Select the option relating to alternative doctoral funding.
- Enter “Applied Doctorates Scheme” as the funding information.
- State in the first paragraph of the Statement of Research Intent that they are applying to the ADS and identify their chosen ADS project(s).
- If applying for multiple Auckland projects, identify one primary project and supervisor.
- Obtain the unique 9-digit University of Auckland ID and 8-digit application number.
- Enter these details into the ADS application form to proceed.
Applicants should ensure all documents are clearly labelled, legible, and professionally prepared.
Last Date for Apply
Open now
Important: Applications submitted after the published deadline will not be accepted. Once an ADS application has been submitted, it cannot be modified or retrieved.
