Postgraduate Scholarships for Antarctic Research

Antarctica New Zealand recognises the value of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean as a unique environment for scientific research. We are committed to supporting the next generation of Antarctic scientists to make valuable contributions to the international knowledge base and understanding of Antarctic and global ecosystems and processes.

The Postgraduate Research Scholarship Programme is designed to support talented researchers to get off to the best possible start in their research careers, focussing on Antarctic and Southern Ocean systems. Antarctica New Zealand is generously supported in this scholarship programme by Ella Yelich-O’Connor and New Zealand Post.

Ella Yelich-O’Connor Antarctic Doctoral Scholarship

Ella Yelich-O’Connor (Lorde) spent just over a week at Scott Base in 2019; visiting scientists in the field, learning more about Antarctica’s role in the global earth system and the impact climate change is having on the frozen continent. Following her trip, she has created a memoir and photo-book filled with photos and essays called ‘Going South’. Proceeds from the sale of the book fund the Ella Yelich-O’Connor Antarctic Doctoral Scholarship. The scholarship supports research that advances understanding, and promotes protection of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. In her own words, ‘this harsh environment feels eternal, but is dangerously vulnerable’.

• For doctoral research
• Stipend of $20,000 per annum over two years (total of $40,000); and
• Logistics support for one season of fieldwork in Antarctica (subject to programme availability, fieldwork must be aligned with an existing Antarctic field event)

New Zealand Post Antarctic Scholarship

New Zealand's presence in Antarctica is important to our nation and New Zealand Post has a long association with the continent – ever since Sir Edmund Hillary was postmaster at Scott Base in 1957. Supporting up-and-coming New Zealand scientists through this scholarship is a key way that New Zealand Post continues its close association with the white continent.

• For master’s or doctoral research
• Stipend of $10,000 over one year; and
• Logistics support for one season in Antarctica (subject to programme availability, fieldwork must be aligned with an existing Antarctic field event)