Becoming a PhD Student

Step 1 - Choose a project

Browse the Woolcock’s research pages on this website. Once you have identified an area of interest, contact the Research Leader or Human Resources Officer and arrange for a visit to the Woolcock to discuss with them and other members of their group the possibility of studying at the Woolcock.

Step 2 - Seek approval

Discuss the project details with your potential supervisor and provide them with an updated copy of your resume.

Step 3 - Apply for a scholarship

Write a project proposal for a scholarship applications and enrolment at The University of Sydney, or other funding body. One criteria for undertaking PhD studies at the Woolcock is that the student must have a competitive scholarship.

Step 4 - Enrol at University

Submit an enrolment application to The University of Sydney for a PhD program. Include with your application a copy of your academic transcript and project proposal.

Step 5 - Start

Submit a copy of your Letter of Enrolment from the University and Offer of Scholarship from the granting body to the Human Resources Officer . Arrange a start date with your supervisor. Begin your research program.

PhD students are required by the University to complete Annual Progress Reports. In addition, students are expected to participate in research meetings at the Woolcock throughout their candidature. These include:

Friday Research Meeting Presentations (60 minute presentation by students, once a year)
Short presentation to visiting Professors (20 minute presentation by student)
Abstract – poster presentation to national conferences (once a year)
Group Research meetings (informal presentations to members of group as required)

Students are expected to attend Woolcock in-house seminars which are held during the year for the students.

Students are required to present their work in a 1hr Final Seminar at the completion of their PhD, prior to the submission of their Thesis for assessment. This will be organised by the student and their supervisor.