Each of the Research Centres of the Sustainable Minerals Institute offers Masters of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in their specialisations. Postgraduate research projects have a strong link with industry; students gain excellent exposure and become familiar with the challenges of conducting research in an industrial environment, and in the challenges of transferring research outcomes to industry.
Research Fields
For information on current research areas and projects in the different fields withing the Sustainable Minerals Institute, please visit the appropriate Research Centre. The SMI particularly welcomes applications from prospective research candidates whose research interests are of a cross disciplinary nature.
Fees and Scholarships
Domestic students studying towards a Research Higher Degree are not required to pay tuition fees. Competitive, merit-based scholarships are available for both domestic and international students which can cover both living expenses and tuition fees (for International students). SMI will apply for scholarships on behalf of successful applicants. Find out more about Scholarships and Fees.
How to Apply
You can apply for and commence a Research Higher Degree at any time of the year. Submit your Resume by email to the
Senior Manager, Postgraduate Student Administration. If you have an a particular area of interest, or have identified a researcher with whom you would like to work, please include these details in your email.
The institute will invite you to apply for a research higher degree should there be a suitable project available. The application is merit-based. The full application includes your research proposal, references and copies of academic records.
Information for International Applicants
SMI conducts research in a on a global scale, and our research candidates come from over 20 different countries. We have an extremely diverse group of staff and researchers and we collaborate with industry in many different regions.
The University of Queensland, as a top international research institution, offers an excellent opportunity to gain a world class qualification and access our global networks.
Brisbane offers a high quality of life, with an active outdoor lifestyle and subtropical climate, as well as having access to beautiful beaches, natural parks, friendly people and a fast growing economy. To find out about living in Brisbane, visit the International Student Guide . Find out about English Language requirements. More information on International student fees and scholarships.
Contact us
If you are considering a postgraduate research degree, feel free to contact the Sustainable Minerals Institute’s postgraduate administration office to discuss your area of research interest, scholarship and enrolment.
Associate/Prof Dominic Howarth - Director of Graduate Studies
Phone: (+61) 7 3365 5863/ 3346 4070 | +61 7 3365 5888
Email: d.howarth@uq.edu.au
Dr Suzanne Morris - Postgraduate Coordinator
Phone: (+61) 7 3346 4593
Email: suzanne.morris@uq.edu.au
Marilyn Wilckens - Senior Manager - Postgraduate Student Administration
Phone: (+61) 7 3346 4030
Email: m.wilckens@uq.edu.au
Amanda Lambert - Postgraduate Research Administration Officer
Phone: (+61) 7 3346 4094
Email: a.lambert3@uq.edu.au