PhD Scholarship at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), Curtin University node.

We invite well-qualified students of any nationality to apply to the PhD program at Curtin University's Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA) based in Perth, Australia, to work with Prof. Steven Tingay (Executive Director of CIRA).  Two projects are available, both involving novel use of the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA: the only fully operational SKA precursor).  The first project is to use the MWA as a receiver for a passive radar system aimed at detecting and characterising space debris; this project has a strong industry connection.  The second project is to utilise the MWA in the detection of ultra high energy cosmic rays, and is in collaboration with the University of Manchester.  Both projects are funded via the CISCO Internet of Everything Innovation Centre at Curtin University.

CIRA forms one half of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), a joint venture between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia. Curtin University operates the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA), the precursor to the low frequency component of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA),  and supports a large research group spanning radio astronomy (galactic, extragalactic), pulsars, accretion physics, studies of the Epoch of Reionisation (EoR), and radio astronomy engineering research including significant participation in developing systems (hardware and software) for the SKA.

Interested applicants are requested to send an Expression of Interest (EOI) to: [email protected]

Your EOI must include a detailed CV, transcripts of undergraduate (and any Masters’) studies along with a 1-2 page statement of your research motivation.  Students who have not completed their formal degree studies in English must submit an IELTS transcript that meets the University’s minimum entrance criteria (detailed here http://research.curtin.edu.au/postgraduate-research/future-research-students/entry-requirements/).  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Selection process: All valid EOIs will be assessed after the closing date of 31 August 2017. Selected candidates will be interviewed and successful applicants will then proceed to develop a research plan to fulfil the University entry requirements. Applicants must not commence the University application process until they have been formally notified of the award.

CIRA is committed to equity and diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.

Closing date for applications: 5pm Perth, WA 31 August 2017.