Australian Research Council

This PhD scholarship at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) offers an exceptional opportunity to investigate spatial belonging and inclusion in school environments. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of leading researchers and engage in innovative research that explores how educators, designers, and architects consider student wellbeing in everyday school spaces. The project, 'Investigating unconventional spaces for student self-management of wellbeing,' is funded by the Australian Research Council and aims to generate new knowledge through collaborative inquiry with student leaders, youth-led digital stories, and creative workshop practices.

Supervision will be provided by Professor Jill Willis (education), Dr Kathryn Kelly (creative arts), and Professor Jenna Gillett-Swan (education/student voice), ensuring guidance from experts across education and creative industries. The candidate will work closely with the Faculty of Creative Industries, Education, and Social Justice’s research centres and groups, and collaborate with both academic and industry partners.

The scholarship includes a generous stipend of $37,010 per annum (tax exempt, indexed annually) for up to 3.5 years, with the possibility of a six-month extension. Tuition fees are fully sponsored for up to four years, allowing the candidate to focus on their research without financial burden. The research will centre on the design and exploration of experiences of spatial wellbeing in schools, prioritising inclusive environments and considering the perspectives of diverse stakeholders.

Eligibility requires meeting QUT’s entry requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy research degree, including English language proficiency for international applicants. Candidates must have recently completed a first-class honours degree, a research master degree, or a coursework master degree with a significant research component in a cognate discipline. The PhD should commence in February 2027. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in spatial wellbeing, capacity for research, and ideally have experience with design briefs, architectural practice, education building procurement, qualitative research methodologies, co-design, collaborations with young people, workshop coordination, and digital or visual ethnographic approaches.

To apply, submit a cover letter, details of academic and research background, motivation, CV (including IELTS or equivalent score for international applicants), full academic transcript, a research proposal addressing the scholarship topic, and a writing sample to Professor Jenna Gillett-Swan via email by 26 June 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online meeting with the project team. Successful applicants must submit a formal QUT expression of interest by 31 July 2026 (international) or 31 August 2026 (domestic). International applicants must meet QUT’s English language eligibility requirements by the time of EOI submission.

This scholarship is ideal for students passionate about educational research, school design, and student wellbeing, offering a dynamic and supportive environment to develop expertise and contribute to impactful research in Australia.