The Immersive Technology for Heart Surgery PhD Scholarship is a fully funded Higher Degree Research (HDR) PhD scholarship offered by the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney), Australia. The scholarship is hosted by the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering and supports interdisciplinary research that combines immersive technologies with cardiac surgery. The project focuses on developing advanced digital tools, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), three-dimensional (3D) visualization, medical imaging, and digital simulation, to improve surgical planning, clinical decision-making, and medical education. Moreover, the research aims to advance healthcare through innovative technologies that enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes.
Background and Purpose
The project seeks to create immersive digital environments that help surgeons visualise complex cardiac anatomy before and during surgical procedures. Researchers integrate medical imaging data with advanced visualisation technologies to improve pre-operative planning, surgical navigation, clinical training, and patient-specific treatment strategies. Furthermore, the project develops innovative software and visualisation tools that support safer, more accurate, and more efficient heart surgery. It also combines expertise in biomedical engineering, computer vision, artificial intelligence, image processing, virtual and augmented reality, medical image analysis, and digital health technologies. As a result, the research strengthens clinical practice while improving healthcare delivery and surgical education.
Immersive Technology for Heart Surgery PhD Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship provides a living stipend of AUD $15,000 per annum for up to 3.5 years. In addition, eligible international students receive a Tuition Fee Scholarship. Scholars gain access to advanced laboratories, medical imaging facilities, and collaborative research with hospitals and clinical partners. They also work alongside biomedical engineers, cardiac surgeons, computer scientists, imaging specialists, and healthcare researchers. Consequently, recipients develop strong technical, clinical, and research skills while contributing to innovative healthcare technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must satisfy the admission requirements for a PhD at UNSW and demonstrate excellent academic achievement and strong research potential. Both domestic and international applicants are eligible to apply. Furthermore, applicants should have an academic background in biomedical engineering, computer science, medical imaging, software engineering, artificial intelligence, computer vision, electrical engineering, or a related discipline. A strong interest in digital health technologies and medical innovation will strengthen an application.
Immersive Technology for Heart Surgery PhD Scholarship Application Process
Applicants should contact the project supervisor before submitting a Higher Degree Research application to UNSW. They must provide a curriculum vitae and academic transcripts when expressing their interest in the project. After receiving a positive response, applicants should complete the university’s PhD admission process and submit all required supporting documents. Therefore, early communication with the supervisor and a well-prepared application can improve the likelihood of selection.
Opportunities for Scholars
The scholarship provides an outstanding opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research with direct clinical impact. Moreover, scholars develop expertise in immersive technologies, medical imaging, artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, and digital healthcare while working with leading researchers and clinical specialists. Their research contributes to safer surgical procedures, improved medical education, and more effective patient care. Consequently, graduates are well prepared for careers in academia, biomedical engineering, digital health, medical technology, healthcare innovation, research organizations, and the medical device industry.
