Metaphysics and Social Ontology

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

1 February 2025

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic / International

About the research project

How do our fundamental assumptions about categorization shape our understanding of reality, and what are the ethical and epistemic implications of these assumptions? This research aims to uncover and critically examine the metaphysical and ontological foundations of our worldviews.


In order to make sense of the world, we categorize its contents and assume various relations between these categories. This is true whether we are discussing fundamental particles and fields, social categories such as gender and sexuality, or the general distinction between properties and particulars. Once we recognize these assumptions, we can question their legitimacy: What is their relation to reality? What are the ethical or epistemic implications of these assumptions? What is the purpose of these categorizations? Are there better ways of categorizing the world?


The Philosophy program invites applications for projects that focus on uncovering and questioning the metaphysical and ontological assumptions built into our understanding of the world. Such projects could include (but are not limited to) research questions in basic metaphysics, philosophy of science, feminist philosophy, social philosophy, political philosophy, and environmental philosophy.


The Philosophy program is committed to inclusion and diversity, and we welcome applications from all races, genders, orientations, and ethnicities.

This project may have a part-time study option available. Some restrictions may apply. Please discuss your preference with the Supervisor and note your preferred study option when applying.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Dr Richard Corry

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

  • a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
  • a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
  • a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

  • First-class Honours or equivalent in a relevant discipline

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Dr Richard Corry to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. In your application:
    • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
    • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
  4. Apply prior to 1 February 2025.

Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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