To support AgTech and biorefining research in the Bundaberg Region expressions of interest have opened for two postgraduate research scholarships for locally-based candidates currently working in agriculture and the bioeconomy in the Bundaberg Region.
QUT has established the scholarships as part of its growing partnership with Bundaberg Regional Council which sees the two organisations set to sign a renewed Memorandum of Understanding in November.
The QUT MoU with Bundaberg Regional Council has continued primarily through engagement activities and support delivered from across QUT, including the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Centre for Agriculture and Bioeconomy (CAB), and QUT Entrepreneurship.
These Master or Philosophy (MPhil) Scholarships are intended to enhance strategic engagement in the Bundaberg region and strengthen existing collaborations with Council, industry partners, community, and education leaders.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the scholarships were an incredible initiative that would bolster the region’s agricultural industry now and into the future.
“Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of our regional economy and the development of AgTech is an essential part of future-proofing that industry,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“We are so pleased that our partnership with QUT is already reaping rewards for locals.
“This is an incredible opportunity for local students, it will have positive outcomes for local agricultural ventures who will have the opportunity to participate in research and development and it’s also ensuring our skilled workers can stay and study in the region.”
QUT Centre for Agriculture and Bioeconomy Associate Professor Mark Harrison said Bundaberg was the heart of a highly productive and diverse agricultural region that played a key role in supplying food to Australians and the rest of the world.
“QUT has a strong partnership with the Bundaberg Regional Council and is pleased to support AgTech and bioeconomy research, development and extension in the region through the scholarship program,” he said.
“We look forward to collaborating with regional partners to deliver cutting-edge research that underpins economic and environmentally sustainable development for Bundaberg.”
The Expression of Interest (EOI) will require applicants to complete the form, attach a copy of their academic CV, and the name(s) of the Bundaberg regional project partners.
If required, additional information will be requested.
Awardees will be selected via a merit-based process by a selection committee consisting of members from the QUT Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering, CAB, and Government Relations and Protocol.
EOIs should be emailed to Professor Peter Prentis, School of Biology and Environmental Science at p.prentis@qut.edu.au by 17 November 2023.
