Australia Monash University Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship 2026
If you are an ambitious researcher looking for a unique PhD opportunity, the Monash University – Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship 2026-2027 is one of the most exciting programs in Australia. Open to international students from all over the world, this scholarship provides financial support and access to world-class resources at both Monash University and Museums Victoria.
This article covers everything you need to know: eligibility, benefits, application process, deadlines, and why this PhD scholarship is an excellent stepping stone for your research career.
About the Monash University – Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship
The scholarship is offered under the Robert Blackwood Partnership, a collaboration between Monash University and Museums Victoria. The partnership was established to promote groundbreaking research that leads to impactful collaborations and attracts significant external funding.
Every year, two scholarships are awarded (subject to suitable applicants):
One in the Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) disciplines.
One in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
This scholarship allows students to engage with Museums Victoria’s vast collections and curators while conducting research under the supervision of Monash academics.
Degree Level
- PhD (Doctoral Research)
Available Subjects
Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS)
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Benefits
The Monash – Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship provides:
$5,000 AUD annual stipend (top-up funding to assist with living costs).
Research support through joint supervision from Monash University and Museums Victoria.
Access to exclusive research collections at Museums Victoria.
Opportunities to participate in seminars, conferences, and public outreach programs.
A platform to collaborate with professionals, curators, and researchers in Australia’s leading cultural and scientific institution.
This stipend is in addition to any other Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships or Monash-funded research scholarships the student may already hold.
Why Choose Monash University for PhD Studies?
Monash University is one of Australia’s top research universities, ranked among the best globally. Established in 1958, it is the second oldest university in Victoria and has a strong global presence with campuses in Australia, Malaysia, Italy, India, and China.
Highlights of Monash University:
A global leader in research excellence.
Strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.
Access to world-class research facilities.
Opportunities to work with industry partners and research institutes worldwide.
By pairing Monash’s academic strength with Museums Victoria’s resources (collections in science, history, culture, and technology), this PhD program creates unparalleled opportunities for impactful research.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Monash University – Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Language Requirements
IELTS (General Programs): Minimum 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0).
IELTS (Arts, Business, Economics): Minimum 7.0 overall (no band less than 6.5).
TOEFL (General): Minimum 79+ (with individual section scores of Reading 13, Listening 12, Speaking 18, Writing 21).
TOEFL (Arts, Business, Economics): Minimum 94+ (with Reading 19, Listening 20, Speaking 20, Writing 24).
Academic Requirements
Applicants must be:
A commencing or continuing full-time PhD student at a Monash campus in Australia.
Enrolled in Research Quarter 1 (following year).
Within the first two years of candidature.
Undertaking a project that is co-supervised by Monash and Museums Victoria OR substantially focused on Museums Victoria’s collections.
Applicants must also have one of the following qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree with honours (1 or 2A) in a relevant field.
A master’s degree with a significant research component (at least 25% of the program).
Equivalent qualifications as assessed by the Graduate Research Committee.
Additional Requirements
Strong academic record, research output, and prior research experience.
Must not have previously held an Australian Government or Monash-funded postgraduate research award for more than six months.
Commitment to comply with Monash University’s RTP Scholarship policy.
Responsibilities of Scholarship Holders
Scholarship recipients are required to:
Maintain satisfactory academic progress and complete course milestones on time.
Actively participate in activities showcasing the Robert Blackwood Partnership (seminars, events, etc.).
Complete a report on their collaboration with Museums Victoria after submitting their thesis.
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
Academic Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Official academic transcripts and certificates.
Proof of citizenship.
Proof of English language proficiency.
Invitation to Apply (from Monash faculty).
Research proposal.
Letter of support from Museums Victoria.
Supervisor recommendation letter.
Deadline
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Applications are reviewed annually, so it’s best to prepare early and contact a curator well in advance.
Conclusion
The Monash University – Museums Victoria PhD Research Scholarship 2026-2027 is an excellent opportunity for PhD students seeking financial support and collaborative research experience in Australia. With access to world-class collections and expert supervisors, recipients can expect to advance their academic careers while contributing to meaningful, high-impact research.
If you’re ready to take your research to the next level, this scholarship could be your gateway to success. Don’t miss the May 1, 2026 deadline – start preparing your application today!
