The QUEX PhD Scholarship Program for 2025 represents a prestigious joint initiative between The University of Queensland (UQ) in Australia and the University of Exeter (UoE) in the United Kingdom. This fully funded doctoral scholarship offers exceptional candidates the opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research while benefiting from the combined expertise of two world-leading institutions.
Comprehensive Overview of the QUEX PhD Scholarship Program
Established in 2018, the QUEX partnership creates a unique transnational research environment that fosters innovation across multiple disciplines. The 2025 cohort will join an elite group of researchers working on globally significant challenges through this dual-degree PhD program, where candidates spend time at both universities and receive supervision from academic teams at each institution.
Key Research Areas Supported
The scholarship supports PhD research across six strategic priority areas:
- Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change
- Health and Wellbeing Innovations
- Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Renewable Energy Technologies
Detailed Benefits of the QUEX PhD Scholarship
Selected scholars will receive an unparalleled support package designed to facilitate world-class research:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Complete waiver of tuition fees at both institutions (valued at AUD$45,000/year at UQ and £25,000/year at Exeter)
- Generous Living Stipend: AUD$32,192 (2025 rate) per annum tax-free for the standard program duration (3.5 years)
- Global Research Travel Fund: AUD$
Research Environment and Institutional Support
The QUEX PhD program provides scholars with access to world-class research infrastructure at both institutions. At The University of Queensland, researchers benefit from:
- Advanced engineering and science facilities including the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
- Specialized research centers like the Global Change Institute and Queensland Brain Institute
- High-performance computing resources through the Research Computing Centre
The University of Exeter complements these offerings with:
- Cut-edge environmental research facilities including the £30 million Living Systems Institute
- Interdisciplinary research institutes such as the Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Strong industry partnerships with organizations like the Met Office and NHS
Program Structure and Academic Requirements
The 3.5-year program follows a structured pathway:
- Initial Year: Primarily based at UQ for coursework and research methodology training
- Second Year: Research placement at Exeter (minimum 12 months)
- Final Phase: Completion and thesis submission at either institution
Key academic milestones include:
- Annual progress reviews by joint supervisory teams
- Compulsory professional development workshops
- Mid-candidature review assessing research trajectory
- Thesis examination by panels from both institutions
Unique Features of the QUEX Program
Transnational Research Opportunities
Scholars can leverage:
- Dual-country fieldwork possibilities
- Comparative international studies frameworks
- Access to geographically distinct datasets
- Cross-cultural research methodologies
Specialized Training Components
The program includes:
- Technical skills workshops (e.g., advanced statistical modeling)
- Research commercialization training
- Science communication modules
- Academic writing intensives
Community and Networking
- Annual QUEX symposium alternating between Australia and UK
- Dedicated early-career researcher networks
- Alumni mentoring program
- Industry engagement events
Application Strategies for Competitive Candidates
Developing a Winning Proposal
Successful applications typically feature:
- Clear articulation of transnational research benefits
- Demonstrated need for dual-institution supervision
- Innovative methodology combining both universities’ strengths
- Tangible impact pathways
Selecting the Right Supervisors
- Identify academics with complementary expertise
- Look for supervisors with prior QUEX experience
- Consider publication records in your field
- Evaluate mentoring styles through initial consultations
Strengthening Your Application
- Highlight any prior international research experience
- Showcase technical skills relevant to your project
- Demonstrate capacity for independent work
- Provide evidence of research resilience
Post-Award Expectations and Responsibilities
Academic Performance Requirements
- Maintain minimum GPA of 5.5/7 at UQ
- Complete compulsory professional development units
- Present at at least one international conference
- Submit annual progress reports
Research Output Expectations
- Minimum two first-author publications
- Conference presentations at major disciplinary events
- Public engagement activities (e.g., media, outreach)
- Contribution to joint UQ-Exeter research initiatives
Career Pathways After Graduation
Academic Trajectories
- 65% of graduates secure postdoctoral positions
- 20% obtain lectureships/faculty positions
- Strong placement in research-intensive institutions
Industry Opportunities
- Growing demand in consulting and applied research
- Positions in government science agencies
- Roles in international organizations (UN, WHO, etc.)
Entrepreneurial Pathways
- Access to UQ’s Ventures program
- Support through Exeter’s Innovation Centers
- Opportunities for research commercialization
Testimonials from Current Scholars
“The QUEX program gave me access to specialized equipment at both universities that simply wouldn’t have been available at a single institution. My research on coral reef adaptation benefited enormously from being able to compare Australian and British marine ecosystems.” – Marine Biology Scholar, 2023 Cohort
“As an AI researcher, the opportunity to work with computer science teams in both hemispheres provided round-the-clock collaboration possibilities and truly global perspectives on algorithmic development.” – Computer Science Scholar, 2022 Cohort
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply if my research spans multiple priority areas?
A: Yes, interdisciplinary projects are encouraged. Clearly articulate how your work connects to both fields.
Q: Is there flexibility in the time spent at each institution?
A: The 12-month minimum at Exeter is fixed, but additional time can be negotiated with supervisors.
Q: What happens if research delays occur?
A: Extensions may be granted in exceptional circumstances, subject to approval from both institutions.
Final Recommendations for Applicants
- Start early – Allow 4-6 months for proposal development
- Build relationships with potential supervisors well before deadlines
- Tailor your application to highlight the QUEX program’s unique value
- Seek feedback from current QUEX scholars or alumni
- Proofread meticulously – Applications with errors are immediately disadvantaged
The QUEX PhD Scholarship 2025 represents a transformative opportunity for researchers seeking to make global impact through transnational collaboration. With its unparalleled resources, dual supervision model, and strong career outcomes, this program stands as one of the most prestigious doctoral opportunities worldwide.
Prospective applicants should visit the official QUEX program website for the most current information and connect with the graduate admissions teams at both universities for specific queries. The investment in preparing a strong application could launch an exceptional research career spanning continents and disciplines.
