University of Newcastle Water World Exoplanets PhD Scholarships 2027
The University of Newcastle, Australia
Two PhD openings in Dr Tom Evans-Soma’s group studying water-world exoplanets through JWST observations or atmospheric modelling. One award accepts domestic and international applicants; the other is domestic-only. Expressions of interest close 9 November 2026.
Dr Tom Evans-Soma at the University of Newcastle is recruiting two PhD researchers to study water-world exoplanets. The observation project analyses James Webb Space Telescope spectra to infer atmospheric properties and assess potential habitability. The modelling project develops climate simulations for water-rich sub-Neptune atmospheres. Applicants can state a preference for either project or both. Starts are flexible from early 2027. One scholarship is open to domestic and international candidates and carries a four-year stipend; the second is for domestic candidates and carries a 3.5-year stipend. The university’s scholarship details state a 2026 stipend rate of A$38,938 per year, indexed, with a tuition-fee scholarship, research and conference costs, up to A$1,500 relocation support, and single-rate overseas health cover for an international scholar.
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Recorded source check: October 21, 2026. A stored check date does not guarantee that every field is complete or still current. Compare the provider, eligibility, funding and deadline with the live official call before applying.
Benefits
Living allowance and tuition-fee scholarship; project, computing and conference-travel support; up to A$1,500 relocation allowance; single-rate overseas student health cover for an international candidate. Stipend term differs by award.
Eligibility summary
The internationally open award accepts applicants from outside Australia as well as domestic applicants; the second award is domestic-only. Candidates must meet University of Newcastle PhD admission requirements. Selection is competitive and considers project preference.
Requirements
Email Dr Tom Evans-Soma by 5pm on 9 November 2026. Say whether you prefer the observation or modelling project, or either, and provide an academic referee’s contact details.
Documents required
Academic transcript; CV of no more than three pages; research statement of no more than two pages (including figures); academic referee contact details in the email.
Language/test requirements
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