ARC Laureate PhD scholarship: Transforming understanding of cognitive ageing

The vision of this Laureate is to empower older Australians to remain engaged and independent for longer, and to transform how we think about ageing, so that older age is imbued with as much dignity, value, and respect as other stages of the lifespan. Because good cognitive function lies at the heart of successful ageing, the aims are to:

1. Deliver a foundational understanding of true cognitive ageing, by moving beyond the artificial confines of the lab, and clarifying the factors that influence how successfully, or not, older adults complete the complex activities that support and enhance their daily lives.
2. Use this knowledge to develop a suite of groundbreaking resources that strengthen and support older adults’ ability to live happier, more enriched lives, and that reduce ageist attitudes and beliefs.
3. Build new cross-disciplinary capacity by establishing The Global Research in Ageing, Cognition and Ergonomics (GRACE) Alliance.

By delivering the practical understanding of how we can embrace the opportunities and meet the challenges posed by increased longevity, you will create an Australia-led, globally connected legacy that prepares us for our ageing world. In doing so, you will directly address National Science and Research Priority 2: Supporting healthy and thriving communities, with far-reaching social and economic benefits for us all.

This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.

The scholarship includes:

• living stipend of $39,220 per annum tax free (2026 rate), indexed annually
• your tuition fees covered

Learn more about the Fellowship support scheme scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of psychology and/or computer science would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of psychology and/or computer science and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of psychology and/or computer science is highly desirable.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 2, 2027. You can start in an earlier research quarter.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by the closing date for the research quarter (RQ) you want to start in:

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Julie Henry (julie.henry@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the 'Scholarship/Sponsorship' section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Fellowship project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: AGEING-HENRY
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/arc-laureate-phd-scholarship-transforming-understanding-cognitive-ageing

Submit an EOI