Undertaking a Higher Degree by Research at the Sustainable Minerals Institute will allow you to develop the professional and personal skills for a successful career in the mineral industry.
Work on independent research projects under advisors who are world leaders in their field.
Undertake relevant applied research and gain valuable industry experience.
Be encouraged to publish at all stages of your study.
Be part of a diverse and inclusive community.
SMI is committed to training the next generation of industry and community leaders and offers two internationally recognised postgraduate qualification programs, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degrees.
Throughout their research studies, HDR candidates are strongly connected to industry and stakeholder groups and the importance of collaboration is reinforced. By graduation, HDR candidates are familiar with the unique challenges associated with conducting research in, and applying research outcomes to, the minerals sector.
SMI comprises 6 research centres and 5 strategic research programs.
How to study at SMI
Once you have checked your eligibility to undertake a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) at UQ, follow the steps below to start your journey.
Step 1: Find a project and confirm support from a SMI research advisor
View a list of available SMI HDR projects – you are welcome to explore multiple projects to find the best fit for you.
If you have a project in mind you are welcome to reach out to our SMI research advisors to discuss your project and receive confirmation of their support as your Principal Advisor.
Step 2: Scholarships and financial support
The University of Queensland offers a range of scholarships for HDR students to give you the financial support you need so you can focus on your research. Find the scholarship that’s right for you. Make sure you check scholarship round application deadlines and outcome dates before applying.
Step 3: Apply
All HDR applications at UQ are managed through a Central Portal on the UQ Graduate School website. Once you have secured support from your Principal Advisor and gathered your documents start your application through the portal .
Contact us
Our HDR Team are available to answer any questions you might have about our MPhil and PhD programs.
Email: smihdroffice@uq.edu.au
Dr Dion Kent Weatherley
Director of Higher Degree Research,
Sustainable Minerals Institute
Email: d.weatherley@uq.edu.au
Dr Liliana Pagliero
Deputy Director of Higher Degree Research,
Sustainable Minerals Institute
Email: l.pagliero@uq.edu.au
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Our students
General enquiries
Email: smi@uq.edu.au
Contact: +61 7 3346 4003
Student enquiries
For enquiries about studying at SMI, email our HDR team.
Email: smihdroffice@uq.edu.au
Media enquiries
Email: communications@smi.uq.edu.au