Global Change Scholars Program

Our Global Change Scholars Program cultivates future research leaders.

Each year the program invites PhD students to develop their expertise in transdisciplinary research for real-world impact.

Through a series of seminars and workshops, students acquire new skills in creative problem-solving, communication and research design. In addition, they participate in a 60-day Industry Challenge, working in a transdisciplinary team with an industry partner to address a real-world issue.

The Global Change Scholars Program will enhance your PhD studies by preparing you to respond creatively to broader social needs. You'll gain research leadership insights from UQ’s Global Change Institute and other academic staff, as well as external research professionals and industry partners.

The Global Change Scholars Program runs concurrently with your PhD. You will need to participate in at least 80% of the activities to successfully complete the program.

Where

The program is delivered in person at UQ's St Lucia campus. 

Duration

12 months (August 2023 to July 2024).

Commitment

Up to 60 days, including 10 to 16 hours of workshops per research quarter plus work on the Industry Challenge.

Timetable

Research Quarter 3 – Research Impact: Seminar series on research translation and working with industry.
Research Quarter 4 – Creating Change: Workshops on design, innovation, and creativity.
Research Quarter 1 – Industry Challenge: Co-designing research with an industry partner.
Research Quarter 2 – Industry Challenge: Deliver and report on proposals for change.

The program will help you to:

  • understand how research can respond to global challenges
  • develop creative, transdisciplinary and co-design research skills
  • collaborate on a real-world project with an industry partner
  • enhance your research leadership and communication skills.

If you successfully complete the program, you’ll be eligible for:

  • a 6-month tuition extension
  • a 6-month stipend extension if you are receiving an approved stipend scholarship.

The Global Change Scholars Program is open to all UQ PhD candidates in the first 12 months of their candidature.

The program is not recommended for anyone planning to undertake a Graduate School placement or internship, as a placement component is included in the program.

Also, the program may not be suitable for anyone involved in institute development programs.

Key dates for 2023

April 17: Invitation to apply sent to eligible HDR students.

April 27: Global Change Scholars Program information session – tentative date.

May 14: Applications close.

July 27: 2023 program commences.

Eligible students will receive a link to an online application form. 

To apply, you’ll need to provide details of your PhD program, answer a few short questions and upload a CV.

Applications are reviewed by a selection committee. The committee ranks applications according to two criteria:

  • Academic and professional achievements
  • Program fit with career aspirations

  Shortlisted candidates are invited to a short interview with the program coordinator. Successful candidates are notified via email.

If you have questions about the program, contact the Global Change Scholars Program Team.

Email: graduateschool@uq.edu.au 
Phone: +61 7 3346 0503

If you have questions about the program, contact the Global Change Scholars Program Team:

Email:  graduateschool@uq.edu.au 

Team members

Dr Skye Doherty

Global Change Scholars Program Coordinator

Samantha Smith

Global Change Scholars Program Engagement Coordinator

GCSP Showcase highlights

Watch highlights and interviews from the 2022-23 Global Change Scholars Industry showcase.

View industry reports via the Global Change Scholars Collection on
UQ-eSpace.

Solve real-world problems

Watch the video to learn more about our program's 60-day Industry Challenge, where students work in a transdisciplinary team to help an industry partner solve a real-world problem.

 

Meet our scholars

The 2023-24 Global Change Scholars Program included 28 PhD candidates drawn from across the University.

The candidates came from a range of research backgrounds and contributed their knowledge and expertise to the program.

Meet the candidates

 

Partner with usLady standing in greenhouse.

Collaborate with PhD students to develop solutions to your industry challenges.


Become an industry partner