Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
Gravitational microlensing is a highly specialized method for the detection of exoplanets around stars located between us and the centre of the Milky Way. Unlike other exoplanet detection methods, microlensing is particularly well-suited to the discovery of cold planets, those that are far enough from their host stars that water and other volatiles are in liquid or solid phase. Taking advantage of the high frequency of stellar alignments in the dense hunting grounds of the inner Galaxy requires the use of infrared cameras to penetrate the veil of obscuring dust that blocks the visible light from these stars. The infrared study of cold exoplanets depends crucially on the planned NASA Nancy Grace Roman space telescope, set to launch in late 2026. In order to optimise the science program of this mission, pathfinder measurements using ground-based telescopes will be used to identify the best target fields, refine our understanding of Galactic structure along these sightlines, and adapt the methods of lightcurve fitting developed for visible light measurements to the different challenges of working in the near-infrared. The PhD candidate will use University of Tasmania telescopes collaboratively in our worldwide network to build our capability for planet detection and prepare for the Roman mission.
Primary Supervisor
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:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
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.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Honours or Masters degree in physics, astronomy, or a closely related area
- Capacity for critical thinking and quantitative problem solving
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Experience in any of: optical/infrared astronomical data reduction, scientific programming, stellar populations or exoplanet science background
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Prof Andrew Cole to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- 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.
- Apply prior to 1 June 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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