Language-based Graph Representation Learning

This PhD project focuses on exploring the intersection of language understanding and graph-structured data analysis, aiming to advance the application of language in graph-based tasks. By leveraging the representational power of language models, the project seeks to develop novel methods for processing and understanding graphs, such as social networks, knowledge graphs, and molecular structures. The research will investigate how language models can be adapted to capture both the semantic richness and the complex relationships inherent in graph data, enabling more accurate predictions, enhanced reasoning capabilities, and improved scalability in large-scale graph applications. Potential outcomes include innovative graph-based neural architectures and new approaches for tasks like node classification, link prediction, and graph generation, with broad implications for fields like natural language processing, network analysis, and drug discovery.

The Data Science (DS) Discipline at EECS has been largely responsible for UQ's rating of 5 (well above the world standard) in the last 3 consecutive Australia ERA exercises, for the field of Information Systems. It has a strong and internationally focused research culture as well as a growing portfolio of datasets and data-intensive computing infrastructure capable of supporting terabyte-level high-performance storage and processing. DS members have advised ~100 RHD students in the last 5 years and contribute significantly to the national and international research community in various leadership roles. PhD students in DS will be well-supported with full access to the advanced computing facilities and the international collaboration network of the supervisors.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project 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 natural language understanding would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of natural language understanding and graph modelling and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of natural language understanding and graph modelling is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Dr Ruihong Qiu (r.qiu@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 21 April, 2025 21 April, 2025.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter LANGUAGE-QIU.

Apply now