Exploring extreme heat in remote communities

About the research project

This PhD project will be part of a multidisciplinary, cross-institutional team undertaking Wellcome Trust-funded research into the growing heat-health burden faced by First Nations communities in remote and under-resourced regions of Australia.

The project will investigate how extreme heat is experienced across remote Australia and how changing climate conditions may affect the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities.

Alongside the University of Tasmania, the student will work closely with researchers from Menzies School of Health Research, Alice Springs, Griffith University and Charles Darwin University. The research will draw on historical observations and future climate projections to explore patterns of extreme heat across different climate zones and their implications for remote communities.

There is scope for the student to develop and refine their own research questions within this broader theme.

Primary supervisor

Meet Professor Melissa Hart

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 (PhD) or 2 years (Master by Research)
• 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.

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:

• Background in climate science, environmental science, meteorology
• Strong analytical skills
• Some programming skills, ideally using high performance computing
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Experience in climate communication

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Professor Melissa Hart 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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