The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT University), Australia, has announced the opening of applications for a prestigious joint PhD program. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the research capabilities of junior academics in Sri Lankan universities.
Program Overview
RMIT University, a globally recognized institution ranked 123rd in the QS World University Rankings 2024, has been running successful joint PhD programs with Sri Lankan universities since 2018. Currently, there are 60 candidates enrolled in these programs, with six having already completed their PhDs. The program is a collaborative effort involving the following Sri Lankan universities:
- University of Peradeniya (PDN)
- University of Moratuwa (MRT)
- University of Ruhuna (RUH)
- University of Sri Jayewardenepura (SJP)
This partnership aims to increase the number of PhD-qualified academics in Sri Lanka, thereby enhancing the country’s academic and research landscape. Up to 14 PhD scholarships are available for the 2024 intake.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be permanent members of the academic staff at a Higher Educational Institution under the UGC.
- Be willing to undertake PhD studies and entitled to paid study leave for the purpose of higher studies.
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with honours, a master’s degree with a research component, or equivalent qualifications.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, as required by RMIT.
Successful candidates will spend 2-2.5 years based in Sri Lanka and up to 12 months at RMIT in Melbourne. They will be co-enrolled at one of the participating Sri Lankan universities and RMIT, and will receive co-supervision from both Sri Lankan and RMIT academics.
Scholarship Details
The scholarship package includes:
- A tuition fee scholarship at RMIT for up to 3.5 years, valued at approximately AU$80,000.
- A stipend (living allowance) for up to 12 months while in Melbourne, valued at approximately AU$35,000.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should:
- Visit the RMIT research degrees website to find projects aligned with their interests: RMIT Research Projects.
- Prepare a project proposal and follow the UGC Guidelines for Postgraduate Grant Schemes, available here.
- Submit the application and project proposal to the Vice Chairman, University Grants Commission, Colombo 07, through the proper channels.
- Email the documents in advance to [email protected].
The closing date for applications is September 27, 2024. For further information or clarification, applicants can contact UGC via email at [email protected].
This joint PhD program represents a significant opportunity for Sri Lankan academics to engage in high-level research and contribute to the global academic community, while also strengthening ties between Sri Lanka and Australia
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| Guidelines | Click Here |
| Application | Click here |
| Project Proposal | Click Here |
| Closing Date | September 27, 2024 |
