Industry PhD Scholarship: Estimation of loading capacity of piles using machine learning

Change lives and change the world with impactful PhD research co-funded by Flinders and GETC

• Receive a $40,000 per annum (indexed annually) scholarship tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• Apply your research skills during an internship with GETC

Flinders University and Geotechnical Engineering Technology Consulting (GETC) Pty Ltd are offering an Industry PhD Scholarship to undertake innovative research into estimation of loading capacity of piles using machine learning.

Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering and GETC are collaborating on this research project to investigate the loading capacity of piles using machine learning. Bringing significant industry experience to the project, GETC is a well- respected/dynamic company, providing service in the renewable energy and advanced manufacturing industry with the development of new type of pile foundations for solar farms, driving sustainable economic growth by using renewable solar power to replace fossil fuels. Flinders College of Science and Engineering is also committed to undertake advanced research in geomechanics, addressing real world problems and promoting sustainable development with renewable energy and has complimentary research strengths in geotechnical site characterization and foundation systems. Together we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project. 

The Flinders Industry PhD Scholarship also includes an internship of at least 60 full-time equivalent days, agreed to in written form within 18 months of candidature, undertaken and completed prior to completion of the PhD, during which you will be embedded with the Industry Partner team, developing your network, and gaining insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading/service driven organisation.

This Scholarship offers:

• $40,000 (2025 full-time rate, indexed annually) per annum tax free, for up to 3.5 years
• A 3-month industry internship allowing you to apply your research into practice during candidature
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges
• A collaborative research community where you can enhance your skills and build your network to progress your research career

To be eligible for the Scholarship you will need:

• to be an Australian citizen, New Zealand citizen, an Australian permanent resident or have, or are eligible to apply for, a relevant international visa; and
• meet Flinders University PhD admission requirements – an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8), or evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or significant experience as a lead researcher; and
• Scholarship recipients are expected to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in semester 2, 2025 or to take up their studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the Industry Partner, up to maximum of 3 months from the time of acceptance of the scholarship.  In exceptional circumstances and with approval of the Industry Partner and the University, this time may be extended to 6 months.
• Any other eligibility criteria relevant to the Industry Partner/research project (e.g. have or able to apply for a National Police Criminal History Check)

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• Master’s degree in civil engineering with specialisation in pile foundations or related area.
• Demonstrated experience in undertaking research in geotechnical field or laboratory tests.
• A keen interest in the PhD research project.