Get an Industry PhD
An Industry PhD is a doctoral program designed with an industry application. If you are interested in working at the interface of research and industry, want to develop the skills and experience to better translate university research into commercialisation outcomes, or want to continue working in industry whilst undertaking a PhD, the National Industry PhD program can help you with your research and career goals. The National Industry PhD program consists of two streams for PhD candidates:
Industry Linked PhD stream:
This stream is for outstanding PhD candidates to undertake research projects co-designed by university and industry, with opportunities to be embedded in an industry setting.
You will get to carry out research in an industry setting, equipping you with skills and tools to create positive impact with research, enhance industry engagement and collaboration skills, and build connections with industry partners. You will spend between 20% and 50% with the industry partner undertaking research relevant work.
Financial Support
On top of the RTP stipend (or similar scholarship) from your university you will also receive:
A minimum of $10,000 a year from the industry partner (full time) for up to 4 years, or $5,000 (part time) for up to 8 years
AND
$7,135 a year from the Australian Government (full time) for up to 4 years, or $3,567 (part time) for up to 8 years.
Industry Researcher PhD stream:
This stream is for highly capable industry professionals who are supported by their employer to undertake PhD projects in partnership with a university.
Your employer, the industry partner, will support you and continue to employ you while you undertake your PhD project.
Your employer will continue to pay you your full salary and benefits, and is responsible for other relevant expenses such as equipment and materials as required.
You will have up to 4 years in the program, working and studying concurrently. You will get to spend between 20% and 50% of your time at your university with your research supervisor and research team. The program duration can be extended to up to 8 years if all parties agree.
If you are an employer with an employee who is interested in undertaking a PhD you can find out how you will be supported in this program here.
Already started a PhD?
To join the Program, you must be within 12 months of starting your PhD and have confirmation and agreement from your Participating University that you meet all requirements. It is advised that applications to join the program are submitted within 6 months of your initial commencement date.
Where to Next?
If you are a researcher/PhD supervisor and are interested in the program, please fill in the short Expression of Interest form. This will help us to better understand your field of research, any current research that would make a suitable Industry PhD research project(s), and whether you need assistance in finding an industry partner to work with. You can also join the Mailing List to get up to date program information, announcements and important date reminders.
Training
As a candidate in the NIPhD Program you get access to additional professional development training that complements that provided by your university. As an NIPhD candidate you are in a unique position, you have a foot in both academia and industry - the training that has been developed reflects that and provides tools and knowledge to help you navigate both worlds.
Each training stream comprises three parts: an in-person workshop and networking event, online content and an assessment piece. Completing the training elements of a stream lead to a microcredential, demonstrating to future employers your depth of knowledge and practical application of a skill set that is needed when working within the intersection of industry and academia.
In-person workshops are held several times a year around Australia and are open to NIPhD candidates whose projects have commenced. Check out Important Dates for upcoming workshops.
Hear from a student in the NIPhD Program