Doctor of Philosophy (Science)
What you’ll study
The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the Faculty of Science will allow you to pursue research from the many fields in which the faculty has expertise. Candidates will complete the degree in three to four years during which time they will undertake research culminating in the submission of an 80,000 word thesis.
PhD candidates in the Faculty of Science may undertake research in the following areas:
- Chemistry (including medicinal chemistry and drug discovery)
- Geosciences (including geology, geography, geology, marine science and environment)
- History and Philosophy of Science
- Life and Environmental Sciences (including agriculture, animal science, biology, biochemistry, microbiology and plant science)
- Mathematics & Statistics (including pure and applied mathematics)
- Physics (including astronomy and data science)
- Psychology
- Veterinary Science
Discover how to apply and find your potential research project and supervisor.
Learn more about research areas in science.
Fees
Admission criteria
How to apply
Before applying
- Find a supervisor within the University whose academic background aligns with your research. You may visit Find a Researcher or Research Supervisor Connect to start.
- Contact a research supervisor via email and provide: your academic/educational background and research experience with examples such as an academic transcript your CV/resume the area of interest for your PhD why you believe your research topics align with this supervisor
- In conjunction with your supervisor, develop a research proposal, 2-4 pages in length (at least 1000 words) that outlines the subject area, objectives and significance of your research.
- Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements.
- If you intend to study part-time towards a PhD (international student visa holders must enroll full-time), you will also need to supply: evidence that shows you will have sufficient time available to plan and carry out the research under the supervision of the University, and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time PhD enrolment a declaration from your employer (if relevant) confirming that you will be permitted to take the time required to effectively pursue your studies.
- Applications are made via the University's online application portal. Submit your application along with:
- your research proposal,
- your CV (curriculum vitae, resume),
- two academic referee reports,
- your academic transcripts,
- a written statement from your potential supervisor that they have agreed to supervise your project,
- supporting evidence such as identification, evidence of residency status and research experience form
- other support evidence as required.
When you are ready to apply, select the `Apply Now' button on the right hand side of this page.
Please note: Except for RTP and UsydIS scholarships for international students, you must complete a separate scholarship application
Submit application
How to apply
Applications are open all year round. Apply well in advance (at least 6 weeks prior to your start date) to allow for a timely response to your application. If your application cannot be processed in time, it will be considered for the next possible research period. Separate scholarship application deadlines apply.
Refer to key research dates on the How to Apply website
Additional information
Course opportunities
The Faculty of Science attracts world-class researchers and top science students from across Australia, fostering a vibrant interdisciplinary research and learning environment. We offer a variety of systems, resources, and funding opportunities to support our post graduate research students, including:
- Postgraduate Research Support Scheme (PRSS)
- HDR Supervisors Funding for Students,
- Grants-in-aid and prizes.
This course is available as a joint degree via a small number of domestic and international partner institutions. For more information on the Joint PhD program, please contact joint-degrees.sfs@sydney.edu.au
Internships
You may have the opportunity to complete a paid internships program during your candidature, or whilst your thesis is under examination, to further develop your skills and experience and apply them in a "real world" context. Generally, HDR internships will involve completing a project or period of work in a workplace not strictly related to your research area.
