Onoriode Coast

The University of New England (UNE) invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship focused on crop physiology and remote sensing to advance drought resilient farming systems in Australia. This innovative research project, supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, aims to develop and deploy crop stress sensors and integrate advanced technologies to enhance the resilience of agricultural production under drought conditions. As a PhD candidate, you will conduct research by collecting physiological, environmental, and remotely sensed data from long-term and on-farm experiments. You will utilize state-of-the-art crop canopy sensors, satellite imagery, and UAV/drone remote sensing to monitor crop stress and integrate sensor data with climate information to develop robust drought indicators. The project primarily focuses on cotton grown across New South Wales, Queensland, and Northern Territory, with additional work on cereal grains, oilseeds, and pulses. Collaboration with industry and research stakeholders, including Goanna Ag and the Australian cotton industry, is a key component of the project, ensuring impactful scientific outcomes. The successful candidate will receive world-class training from leading scientists at UNE and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD), as well as access to state-of-the-art research laboratories. The scholarship package includes a tax-free stipend of $41,600 per annum (2026 rate, with a 4% increase in subsequent years), a UNE Tuition Fee Scholarship for international candidates (covering tuition costs for four years), additional funding for conference attendance, fieldwork, and specialised training, relocation assistance up to $3,000, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international candidates and their family. The scholarship duration is fixed and cannot be extended. Eligibility criteria require applicants to hold qualifications equivalent to an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, Research Master’s degree, or equivalent overseas qualifications. A degree in agriculture, plant science, ecology, biological sciences, environmental science, or a closely related field is essential. Applicants must demonstrate experience with statistical methods and analysis and possess a current, valid driver’s licence. Desirable qualifications include experience in remote sensing, spatial data analysis, and proven experience conducting experiments in agricultural settings. Proof of English language proficiency is required for admission to UNE. To apply, review the eligibility criteria carefully and submit your application via email to Associate Professor Onoriode Coast ([email protected]) or Dr Priyakant Sinha ([email protected]). Your application must include a current CV, contact information for two professional or academic referees, proof of English language proficiency, and a cover letter (maximum 400 words) outlining your suitability for the project. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. The application deadline is 03 May 2026 (AEST). This PhD opportunity is based at UNE in Armidale, NSW, with a later transition to the Australian Cotton Research Institute in Narrabri, NSW. The project offers a unique chance to contribute to the development of drought resilient farming practices and to gain expertise in advanced agricultural technologies and remote sensing.