Frequency protection for VLBI

About the research project

The global geodesy supply chain entails the entire measurement systems that are needed for today's multiple applications in positioning, navigation and timing. It underpins all satellite operations, climate change research as well as national economies and defence. The United Nations consider it crucial for their sustainable development goals.

For absolute orientation of the Earth, geodesists use the radio astronomy technique called Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI). By connecting telescopes all around the world and precisely measuring reception times of signals from extragalactic black holes, the Earth's own rotation can be disentangled from variations in satellite orbits.  

The University of Tasmania is responsible for Australia's contribution to international VLBI, as part of a large research collaboration with Geoscience Australia. We maintain a VLBI research group consisting of academics, professional staff, operators and technicians.

In order for VLBI to work, one needs to be able to 'see' the faint signals from far distant radio sources. In today's situation of increasing terrestrial radio emissions (e.g. 5G network) as well as the unexpected growth of new space emitters (e.g. Starlink), radio astronomical observations are endangered.

This research project is about studying the current situation of frequency allocations coordinated in international treaties by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and develop strategies for improved protection for VLBI. Specifically, in order to receive recognition at ITU level, case studies need to be presented. The project will challenge the candidate in navigating international regulations, acquiring in-depths understanding of the VLBI technique as well as undertaking test measurements and case studies. In return, the project offers to work on the brink where science meets policy, with the potential of great impact for real world applications.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Lucia McCallum

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years
• a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
• The Research Higher Degree must be undertaken on a full-time basis
• Applicants must already have been awarded a Masters degree or First Class Honours degree or hold equivalent qualifications or relevant and substantial research experience in an appropriate sector
• A good level of spoken and written English is necessary for this project

Selection criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

• Demonstrated capability to work scientifically – such as working independently, analysing and interpreting data as well as presenting results in an attractive way, verbally and written.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Education in Physics or (radio) Astronomy.
• Education in geodesy or spatial sciences. Familiarity with space geodetic techniques (e.g. VLBI) is welcome.
• Experience in or interest for policy work.
• Experience with using the UTAS radio telescopes.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Lucia McCallum to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. In your application:
   • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
   • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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