Scholarships supporting Indigenous and non-Indigenous students undertaking PhD research on a topic related to Indigenous knowledge.
STATUS: Open for automatic consideration
The Indigenous Knowledge Institute at the University of Melbourne works to recognise the expertise of Indigenous knowledge holders, and the knowledge systems in which they are a part. We advance research, build connections and develop engagement opportunities with Indigenous knowledge holders across Australia and throughout the world. Read more about us.
About the scholarship
The University of Melbourne offers Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships to candidates accepted into its PhD program, with both Indigenous or non-Indigenous scholars considered.
You would be joining a growing field of scholarship focused on Indigenous knowledge and a vibrant network of Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers supported by the Indigenous Knowledge Institute.
Indigenous knowledge, sometimes called traditional or local knowledge, refers to the understandings and practices developed by Indigenous peoples through thousands of years of experience. Indigenous knowledge systems are characteristically holistic, relational, and rooted in a strong and continuing connection with the land, sky, and waters. Knowledge is often passed down orally and can be collectively owned. It can include or be embodied in language, song, story, ritual, lore, and customary practices. The knowledge of Indigenous peoples does not represent a static body of traditional information, and the capacity to incorporate new tools and skills has always been fundamental to the dynamism of Indigenous cultures.
Eligibility and selection criteria
To be considered for the Research Training Program Scholarship, you must have applied for and meet the entry requirements for a graduate research degree or be enrolled in a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne.
In addition, to be considered for one of three PhD scholarships related to research in Indigenous knowledge you must also:
- Be writing on a topic related to Indigenous knowledge
- Be committed to ethical and respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities.
The Research Training Program Scholarship (Stipend and Fee Offset) is offered to domestic and international students ranked highest by relevant selection panels based on their academic results for prior study and their research potential in their field of study.
Previous recipients
The Indigenous Knowledge Institute has supported the University of Melbourne with the award of Research Training program scholarships since 2021. Find out more.
Key dates and how to apply
Applications open | Automatic |
New students | You will be automatically considered for this scholarship, if you have applied for admission to a graduate research course by the application closing date for that course. No separate scholarship application is required. Within seven days of having submitted your course application, you will receive confirmation that you will be automatically considered for a range of graduate research scholarship. |
Deferred or enrolled students | You must submit an online application form, if you already have received an offer for a graduate research course and deferred commencement of your course to the following year, or you are currently enrolled in a graduate research course for which you seek a scholarship. |
Outcomes and commencement | Offers for Graduate Research Scholarships that provide a stipend and fee offset are made shortly after course offers are made. |
More information
If you are interested in higher degree research and would like to undertake a project related to Indigenous knowledge, we want to hear from you. Scholars from all academic disciplines will be considered and interdisciplinary research is encouraged. Please contact us at Indigenous-knowledge@unimelb.edu.au.