Opportunities

Research students wtih Sydney Harbour in background

We are an energenic research group passionate pushing the boundaries of knowledge to shape more equitable and effective humaintarian response, disaster risk reduction, and climate change adaptation. Located within the School of Civil Engineering at the University of Sydney, you’ll have access to expansive resources to develop research skills.

Benefits - Why Join Us?

Technical Expertise

Gain research skills that position you as a global leader in disaster and climate change research. You’ll have access to coursework, equipment, and advising that equips you to learn advanced analysis techniques.

Action Research

Our work engages with communities, governments, and organisations to co-produce knowledge. You’ll have the chance to work on research with real-world impact to address complex problems.

A Dynamic Team

Join a cohort of transdiscplinary research students working to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges. You’ll be supported with an unparalleled peer network that is multi-cultural and inclusive.

A Liveable City

Sydney consistently ranks among the top 10 most liveable cities globally. Soak up over 300 days of sunshine, bask on iconic beaches, and embrace being at the centre of a multi-cultural hub.

How to Apply

You should email Dr Aaron Opdyke ([email protected]) with a short statement of interest, CV, and copies of academic transcripts as a first step to discuss your research interests. As part of your formal application you will need to prepare a research proposal which outlines your planned research – you should consult the University of Sydney Research Proposal Guidelines when preparing. Proposed topics should relate to one of primary themes of the Lab. For further details, please see the University of Sydney Admission Office for steps to apply for admission.

Please note that ME and MPE projects will be emailed out by the Capstone Project Coordinator prior to the start of semester you are commencing CIVL5020/5021/5022/5222/5223. Please ensure that you promptly contact Dr Aaron Opdyke ([email protected]) to discuss your interests as there are may be a limited number of places available. You will be provided a list of potential projects, but you are also welcome to propose your own within our lab’s themes.

Please note that honours projects will be emailed out by the Honours Coordinator prior to the start of semester you are commencing. Please ensure that you promptly contact Dr Aaron Opdyke ([email protected]) to discuss your interests as there are may be a limited number of places available. You will be provided a list of potential projects, but you are also welcome to propose your own within our lab’s themes.

If you are looking for short-term opportunities with our lab, between semester breaks, the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Sydney runs a Vacation Research Internship Program during a winter program (June to August, approximately 6 weeks) and a summer program (December to February, approximately 8 weeks). Projects associated with our lab will be listed under the supervision of Dr Aaron Opdyke (opportunities may not always be included from our lab).

Scholarships and Funding

Prospective PhD students may be eligible for scholarships from the University of Sydney through the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) which covers tuition fees, Overseas Student Health Cover (HSHC), and a stipend of $40,109 p.a. (2024 rate), for up to 3.5 years. More information can be found at the University of Sydney Scholarships Office. Please contact Dr Aaron Opdyke to discuss funding opportunities further.

Other external funding sources (by nationality):