PhD and Masters of Research Positions in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Macquarie University is seeking outstanding candidates for PhD and Masters of Research scholarships commencing July 2026.

Macquarie’s astronomy and astrophysics research group is one of the largest in Australia. We offer PhD and Masters by Research degrees on topics ranging from exoplanets to the most distant galaxies, star formation to stellar death, the evolution of our Milky Way Galaxy, astronomical instrumentation, and more. Many projects are offered through our Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) department, a recognised world leader in innovative astronomical instrumentation, software and research, or offered jointly with CSIRO Space & Astronomy, who operate Australia’s national radio astronomical observatories. Successful applicants will join a diverse group of researchers and students from all over the world. We actively strive to create an equitable, inclusive and welcoming environment to all who work and study with us.

For our research areas see here. A representative but incomplete list of potential graduate projects can be found here.

Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis, and cover tuition fees and a tax-free living allowance of AU$39,700 per year (approximately US$26,500).

Please fill out this Expression of Interest Form no later than 8 February 2026. Early submission will provide the review panel more time to identify suitable supervisors and begin the university application process.

Competitive candidates will be connected with relevant supervisors and mentored through the separate application process, for the University-wide deadline of 1 March. 

YOU MUST MEET THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS (see tab near the bottom of that link) AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION. APPLICATIONS WITHOUT THIS REQUIREMENT WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED