University of Newcastle PhD Scholarship

This PhD scholarship at the University of Newcastle, Australia, offers an exciting opportunity to develop an Australian-focused modelling framework for assessing carbon and biodiversity market designs. The project aims to compare environmental and economic outcomes to inform policy, with a strong emphasis on expert workshops and stakeholder engagement. Forest restoration is increasingly recognised as a critical strategy for mitigating climate and biodiversity crises, and Australia is at the forefront of innovative carbon and biodiversity markets. These markets incentivise restoration through the trade of credits, offsetting deforestation and carbon emissions.

The project will systematically identify and compare market design options, delivering evidence-based recommendations to guide the development of Australian policies that ensure market expansion aligns with sustainability and equity goals. The student will gain industry-relevant skills in spatial optimisation, economic modelling, policy analysis, and ecosystem service valuation, and will build strong connections across government, conservation organisations, and carbon market stakeholders. This positions graduates for impactful careers in environmental policy, market analysis, and sustainability planning.

Applicants from varied backgrounds are welcome, but ideal candidates will have experience in quantitative analysis, modelling, spatial analysis, optimisation, forest restoration, ecosystem services valuation, policy analysis, market design, or environmental economics. The BIOSFERE Lab, within the Centre for Conservation Science, provides a dynamic research environment with access to leading experts and resources. The scholarship includes a living allowance of $38,938 per annum (2026 rate) indexed annually, a stipend top-up of $5,030 per annum, tuition fee coverage for 3.5 years, and a relocation allowance of up to $1,500.

To apply, candidates should send an email expressing their interest, including scanned academic transcripts, CV, a brief statement of research interests, and a proposal linking their interests to the project, to [email protected] by 5pm on 02 May 2026. Further details and the application portal are available via the provided link. This opportunity is open to domestic students who meet the minimum eligibility criteria for PhD admission at the University of Newcastle.

Join the BIOSFERE Lab and contribute to shaping the future of Australia's environmental markets, ensuring their effectiveness and equity for both local and international communities.