2026 Summer Scholarship - Doctoral Journey: Improving Information, Communication and Support for Research Students

To support students to undertake a supervised research project in the Graduate Research School and Ethics to examine how Massey communicates with and supports prospective and enrolled doctoral candidates throughout their research journey.

Scholarship overview

Status: Open

Key facts

Value: $7,500
Duration: 10-12 weeks (December 2026 - February 2027)
Number available: One position available
Type of study: Postgraduate, Masters, PhD or doctorate, Research

Application dates

Applications open: 5 November 2026
Closing date: 22 November 2026

Restrictions

Eligibility restrictions: Research experience.

This project will examine how Massey communicates with and supports prospective and enrolled doctoral candidates throughout their research journey. It will review key information and communication platforms, including websites, Stream sites, library resources and other support channels, to understand their usefulness, accessibility and effectiveness from a student perspective.

Using methods such as surveys, focus groups and journey mapping, the project will identify strengths, gaps, duplication and areas where information could be improved, simplified or better integrated. The project will consider the needs of domestic and international candidates, distance and campus-based students, and candidates at different stages of the doctoral journey. Literature and benchmarking will inform the project.

Output

A doctoral student communication and support review, including a map of the end-to-end doctoral student experience, an evaluation of existing information and communication channels, recommendations for improving the visibility, accessibility and usability of key resources, and a prioritised roadmap for redesign and future development.

What you'll be studying

You will have experience in independent research as part of a masters or doctoral degree, and will have been enrolled at Massey University in 2026.

Students from the the broad discipline of Humanities and Social Sciences may be given preference, but you are encouraged to apply if you feel you can deliver on the project outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

You will have recently undertaken postgraduate research at Massey University. Ideally you will be a Master's or Doctoral student who has recently submitted your thesis for examination.

Application checklist

Include the following with your application:

  • a brief outline of the research topic you have or are undertaking at Massey (maximum 200 words), including the current status of your research project (for example, completed or under examination)
  • a statement explaining your interest in the proposed research project, and how your skills and experience have prepared you to undertake the project successfully
  • your current CV

Selection considerations

When choosing our recipient we will consider your experience and expected ability to deliver on the proposed research project. Shortlisted applicant’s may be invited to an interview.