Industry Research Program

What is the Defence Trailblazer Industry Research Program?

The Industry Research Program (IRP) provides an opportunity to work on higher degree research projects that have been developed in consultation with our industry partners and leading academics.

The program offers academic supervision, industry mentorship and an on-site internship to enhance your research experience and help deepen your knowledge and expertise in your field of interest.

Consider a new career phase by engaging in relevant research with real-world application. Our contemporary research projects are now available for you to explore.

Next steps and how to apply

Step 1. Find a research project
Step 2. Refer to the project flyer for more information
Step 3. Submit your Expression of Interest
Step 4. Have any further questions? Enquire now.

Dr. Ayad Al Mahturi's unique journey

“Securing my current position was a result of the expertise I gained during my PhD. Through extensive experience in real-time experiments, I was able to transfer my knowledge from the university lab to the industry,” Ayad said.

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Lily Attwood is ready to go hypersonic

“I love working on a defence aligned project because I get to work with real industry stakeholders on real technology. I feel like I’m at the cutting edge of what I’m doing, and it’s awesome to be a part of sovereign capability development,” said Lily.

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Which research degree is right for you?

Refer to individual project information for degree options.

A PhD is the highest academic degree you can earn. The program is primarily research based and requires you to make an original contribution to knowledge in your chosen field of study. The qualification is awarded based on the examination of a major thesis of no more than 80,000 words and a defined period of internship in an industry setting. 

Duration: 4 years full time

Available location(s): The University of Adelaide and UNSW

The Professional Doctorate is the perfect choice if you’re a professional wishing to advance your expertise and contribute to professional practice in your chosen field. The qualification is awarded based on the completion of coursework, examination of a major thesis of a minimum of 50,000 words  and a period of professional practice.

Duration: 4 years full time

Available location(s): UNSW only

The MPhil provides you with training in research methodology and techniques centred around the critical evaluation of academic publications in your chosen field. Consisting of one-third coursework, two-thirds research and involving the production of a thesis (word count varies). This will also include a defined period of internship in an industry setting. As an MPhil graduate, you’ll be well placed to progress to independent research at doctoral level.  

Duration: 2 years full-time or half-time equivalent

Available location(s): The University of Adelaide and UNSW

The Masters by Research provides you with the opportunity to build in-depth knowledge in your chosen of field. The qualification is awarded based on the examination of a major thesis of no more than 75,000 words.

Duration: 2 years full-time or half-time equivalent

Available location(s): UNSW only

Eligibility

For the majority of projects you will require security clearance, which will likely limit applicants to Australian citizens or citizens of countries within the Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY).

Please refer to individual project information for specific eligibility requirements. 

Please note: submitting an Expression of Interest doesn’t guarantee a scholarship, but it is a necessary step in the application process.

Limited scholarships available. Applications close December 2023.