Fully Funded PhD Positions in Deep Earth and Planetary Seismology at Australian National University

The Australian National University (ANU) is offering four fully funded PhD positions in Deep Earth and Planetary Seismology under the ARC Laureate Fellowship, supervised by Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić, Head of Geophysics. These positions are based at the Research School of Earth Sciences (RSES), ANU, Canberra, Australia. The research group focuses on global seismology, both observational and theoretical, and mathematical geophysics. Projects span the dynamics of Earth's deep interior, including the inner and outer cores and lowermost mantle, as well as seismic exploration of the Moon, Mars, and icy moons. Research activities include advanced seismic waveform modelling, coda-correlation, innovative inverse methods, and large seismic datasets, with opportunities to study earthquake processes and solid-Earth/ocean/cryosphere interactions. Field deployments of seismic instruments in Australia, Antarctica, and at sea are also possible, with projects often crossing disciplinary boundaries with geodynamics, computational geophysics, physics, geology, and statistics. ANU Geophysics is ranked as the top geophysics program in Australia and among the top 10 worldwide. The university is located in Canberra, offering access to world-class computational resources and international networks. The program provides a supportive, collaborative environment for students interested in deep Earth and planetary seismology, geophysics, and related fields. Funding for these PhD positions is comprehensive: a tax-free stipend of A$39,069 per annum (2026 rate), full tuition coverage, a one-time computer allowance, and generous travel funds for national and international conferences. Top candidates are also considered for the Alan and Julia Beck Supplementary Scholarship. Applicants should have a strong background in physics, geophysics, planetary science, mathematics, or engineering, with excellent analytical and computational skills. Required application materials include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts (B.Sc. and M.Sc.), English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS, if available), and a research proposal/statement of interest (up to 2 pages plus 1-page references). Expressions of interest are due by January 5, 2026, and should be sent in PDF format to Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić at [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be guided through the formal ANU application process. For more information, visit the ANU Geophysics research page or contact Professor Tkalčić directly. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated students to join a leading research group and contribute to cutting-edge research in Earth and planetary sciences.