Summary
The Australian Research Council (ARC) and Murdoch University are offering at least three fully funded PhD scholarships within the ARC Research Hub in Responsible AI for a Sustainable Grain Industry. The hub aims to revolutionize Australia’s grain industry by developing innovative, trustworthy, and responsible AI (RAI) technologies. These advancements target sustainable growth, climate adaptation, reduced carbon emissions, and enhanced global competitiveness for the agriculture sector.
PhD Scholarships in Responsible AI at Murdoch University, Australia
Designation
- Position: PhD Research Scholar / Candidate
- Number of Openings: At least 3 PhD scholarships available
Key Scholarship Details
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Australian Research Council (ARC) / Murdoch University |
| Stipend Value | $37,000 per annum (2026 rate, tax-free) |
| Duration | Up to 3.5 years (subject to satisfactory progress) |
| Student Type | Domestic & International students |
| Enrolment Windows | July – November 2026 OR January – May 2027 |
Research Areas
Developing trustworthy, responsible AI (RAI) technologies for climate-resilient crop production, computational genomics, and high-throughput grain breeding.
Candidates will focus on one of the potential thesis project areas:
- Responsible AI for Computational Genomics Breeding
- Trustworthy AI for Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Grain Production
- AI-Enabled Grain Breeding Technologies (including high-throughput phenotyping)
Location
- University: Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia (with substantive engagement with industry partners)
Eligibility / Qualification
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Degree: Hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree with honours (minimum Second Class Division 1) or a Master’s degree with a substantial research component.
- Discipline Background: A strong academic background in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering/Bio-engineering, Agriculture, or a closely related field.
- Research Capability: Demonstrated research capabilities, including knowledge of research methods and academic writing skills.
- English Language Proficiency (International Only): Meet Murdoch University’s English requirements (IELTS Academic Overall 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent), and be eligible for admission to a full-time PhD program.
- Preferred Experience: Prior experience in industry-aligned projects is preferred.
Job Description / Responsibilities
- Conduct high-quality doctoral research aligned with the assigned thesis project area.
- Design and develop technical frameworks spanning the grain supply chain (e.g., genomic breeding, planting, farming systems, robotics, carbon-credit trading).
- Undertake a substantive, core engagement placement with designated agriculture and technology industry partners.
- Participate in co-design, co-development, and co-supervision initiatives managed by the research hub.
- Produce academic writings, research progress reports, and peer-reviewed outputs.
How to Apply
The application process is broken down into two main stages:
Stage 1: Expressions of Interest
Interested candidates must email their Cover letter (briefly addressing the selection criteria), Academic Resume/CV, Transcripts, and English proficiency scores (if applicable) directly to the hub supervisors:
- Prof Li: C.Li@murdoch.edu.au
- Prof Sohel: F.Sohel@murdoch.edu.au
- Email Subject: Must be formatted as
“ARC Grain Hub”
Stage 2: Interview & Proposal
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview. The preferred candidates will then collaborate directly with the supervisory panel to prepare a comprehensive formal research proposal for full university admission.
Last Date for Apply
- Closing Date: August 10, 2026 (Applications opened on July 15, 2026)
