How to apply

Once you’ve identified a joint PhD project that you’re interested in, you can apply to the Shanghai – Melbourne Research Training Group.

To apply for a joint PhD opportunity in the Shanghai - Melbourne Research Training Group, follow these steps.

1. Identify a project you are interested in from the available opportunities.

2. Make sure you meet the admission criteria and English language requirements of both The University of Melbourne and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, found below:

All faculties have additional requirements for applicants. Projects in the Shanghai – Melbourne Research Training Group are carried out in one of five faculties. Check that you meet the admission criteria of the relevant faculty:

3. Email the project supervisor at the University of Melbourne. Their contact details are included at the bottom of the project description.

Include the following in your email:

  • Your name and contact details
  • The title of the joint PhD project of interest
  • A cover letter explaining your interest in the project
  • Your CV
  • Your university transcripts
  • Any additional supporting documentation (if required).

The supervision team will consider your documentation and advise you on the next steps.

Important:  

  • According to SJTU policy, all Chinese nationals are required to have SJTU as their home institution.
  • SJTU home candidates will be required to complete 12 months of coursework at SJTU.
  • All participants are required to complete 12 months’ residency at the partner institution.

Diversity and inclusion

We are firmly committed to the principles of Diversity and Inclusion, and all applications will be evaluated relative to prior opportunities. Workplace accommodations for people with a disability can be raised prior to the application through a direct email to the supervisors or discussed with short-listed candidates during the interview phase. Candidates from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.

Financial support

The successful candidates will be funded by either UoM or STJU. This funding includes a full scholarship, health insurance and mobility support.

  • All participants will receive a UoM Graduate Research Scholarship/SJTU scholarship when located at Melbourne/Shanghai. Please note that the SJTU scholarship for non-Chinese nationals includes a monthly stipend of 5000RMB, a monthly accommodation allowance of 1500RMB and the annual insurance of 800RMB as required by the Chinese government. Further information on accommodation and living expenses is available here.
  • Scholarship support will be available for up to 4 years.

Propose your own PhD project

We welcome ideas for new joint PhD projects, in addition to those already advertised. All joint PhD projects must be carried out with one of the University’s partner institutions. Note that the normal application process will apply.

For more information on proposing joint PhD projects, and a list of our joint PhD partner institutions, visit the Joint PhDs page.

Contact us


If you have questions about the joint PhD program or the application process, contact us.

First published on 29 August 2022.

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