The Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship (2026) provides unparalleled access to Australia’s largest public museum organization for doctoral candidates. This program allows inquisitive scholars to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical collections-based research. You can secure funding and professional mentorship to explore critical themes in natural sciences, humanities, and indigenous cultures.
Museums Victoria fosters innovative research partnerships. These scholarships support high-impact collaborations. The program empowers international students. Research projects utilize vast museum collections.
The Monash University–Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship is a premier award that offers a $5,000 annual top-up stipend alongside standard doctoral support, ensuring recipients can focus entirely on high-impact scientific or cultural inquiries. You must collaborate with a museum curator to ensure your project aligns with institutional research priorities. Use the details below to meet eligibility criteria and submit a successful application for the 2026 academic cycle.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and Research Masters.
- Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Institution(s): Monash University or University of Melbourne in partnership with Museums Victoria.
- Program Period: Up to 3.5 years (maximum duration).
- Course offered: Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) or STEM disciplines.
- Deadline: May 1, 2026 (Monash Partnership).
Scholarship Coverage
The Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship offers comprehensive financial and academic support for international students. Recipients receive an annual stipend of AUD $5,000 as a top-up to their primary Research Training Program (RTP) or university scholarship. The program provides three critical research advantages: full access to museum collections, dedicated workstation space, and professional development workshops.
You may also receive funding for fieldwork or equipment purchases related to your project, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500 for specific activities. The scholarship ensures all tuition fees are covered through the primary university partnership, removing the burden of academic debt. Scholars gain networking opportunities through seminars and conferences, allowing them to expose their findings to a global audience.
Eligibility Criteria
There are four primary eligibility requirements for the Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship. You must be enrolled as a full-time PhD student at a partner university campus in Australia. Applicants must be within the first two years of their candidature if they have already commenced their studies.
You must work on a project with direct links to museum collections, such as anthropology, archaeology, or biology. Finally, international students must possess a valid Australian student visa and meet all university admission standards. Those with joint Monash–Museums Victoria supervision receive high priority during the selection process.
Application Process
To apply for the Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship, discuss your project with a relevant museum curator before submitting formal documents. You must obtain a formal letter of support from Museums Victoria indicating the project’s relevance to their collections.
Prepare a two-page project proposal detailing your research objectives, methodology, and intended outcomes. You must upload your academic transcripts, CV, and letters of recommendation from your university supervisors. Submit your application through the official university portal (Monash or University of Melbourne) before the annual deadline. You will receive a notification from the joint selection committee once your records of achievement are evaluated.
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form from the partner university.
- Official Academic Transcripts and degree certificates.
- Professional CV or Resume highlighting research experience.
- Letter of Support from a Museums Victoria curator.
- Research Proposal (maximum two A4 pages).
- English Proficiency Test Results (IELTS or TOEFL).
Apply Now
Visit the Monash University Scholarship Page or the Museums Victoria Careers Portal to begin your application.
