The ARC Laureate PhD Fellowship – Caves and their stalagmites: linking climate to groundwater recharge is a fully funded Higher Degree Research (HDR) PhD scholarship offered by the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Australia. The scholarship forms part of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Laureate Fellowship program. It supports doctoral researchers who want to investigate the connections between climate change, groundwater recharge, cave systems, and water sustainability. Moreover, the project promotes innovative research that addresses major environmental challenges and strengthens scientific knowledge for future water management. It also allows researchers to work within a leading interdisciplinary research environment alongside internationally recognized experts.
Background and Purpose
The research project runs from 2025 to 2030, with PhD recruitment scheduled for 2027. It aims to improve scientific understanding of how climate influences groundwater recharge by studying caves and stalagmites, which preserve long-term records of environmental and hydrological change. Furthermore, the project seeks to explain how past climate conditions have affected groundwater systems over time. Researchers will generate evidence that supports sustainable groundwater management, climate adaptation strategies, and informed water resource policy. In addition, the scholarship encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across climate science, hydrogeology, environmental science, groundwater sustainability, and environmental policy. As a result, the research will contribute valuable knowledge for addressing future environmental and water security challenges.
ARC Laureate PhD Fellowship Benefits
The scholarship provides a living stipend of AUD 39,200 per annum, which is indexed annually. In addition, recipients receive a top-up scholarship of AUD 10,000 per year for up to four years. Successful candidates also join the ARC Laureate Fellowship research team within the Faculty of Science at UNSW. Consequently, scholars gain access to outstanding research facilities, expert supervision, and collaborative opportunities with leading scientists and policy specialists.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic achievement and satisfy the admission requirements for a PhD at UNSW. Both domestic and international applicants may apply. Furthermore, international applicants must also apply for a Tuition Fee Scholarship to cover their tuition costs. Applicants should show strong research potential and a genuine interest in climate science, groundwater systems, environmental sustainability, or related disciplines.
ARC Laureate PhD Fellowship Application Process
Applicants should prepare all required admission documents and follow the PhD application procedures set by UNSW. They should also identify the research project that best matches their academic interests. Two PhD projects are available. The first focuses on climate, recharge, and groundwater sustainability in collaboration with the University of Newcastle. The second examines climate, recharge, and groundwater policy in collaboration with researchers at UNSW. Therefore, applicants should ensure that their research interests align closely with the selected project before applying.
Opportunities for Scholars
The scholarship enables researchers to contribute to internationally significant environmental research with direct real-world impact. Moreover, scholars will investigate critical issues related to climate change, groundwater sustainability, and environmental policy while working with leading scientists and policy experts. Their research can improve water management practices, strengthen climate adaptation planning, and influence future environmental policy. Consequently, graduates will develop advanced research expertise and contribute meaningful solutions to global water and climate challenges.
