La Trobe University - University of Bayreuth Joint PhD Program Scholarship

La Trobe University is offering a graduate research scholarship for a student to undertake a joint PhD with Bayreuth University, Germany.

Applications for this scholarship are now open to Australian or New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent residents. The application deadline is 31 October 2024.

Students undertaking the joint PhD program will be enrolled in a PhD at both institutions. Your supervisory team will comprise of academic staff from both institutions who will provide support and guidance throughout your research. As a student enrolled at both La Trobe and Bayreuth, you will have access to services and support provided by both institutions, including a range of professional and personal development programs.

You will begin your studies at La Trobe University where you will spend the majority of your time, but with an expectation that you will spend typically 12 months at Bayreuth University. Travel to and study at the host institution will be subject to the usual immigration requirements.

The joint PhD includes a tailored program of progress monitoring to fulfil the requirements of both institutions. All candidates will write and submit a thesis for defence by oral examination. On successful completion of the program requirements, you will be awarded a PhD jointly by both institutions.

The successful applicant can commence at any time from 1 February and 1 July 2025, at a La Trobe University campus, and willing to spend typically 12 months based in Bayreuth, Germany.

Available project

There is a single joint PhD scholarships available to applicants, competitively awarded with selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the selected project. Please contact the lead supervisor listed for more information.

Project: Understanding the Burden of Anterior Knee Pain in Recreational Cyclists (UB-24072)

Lead supervisor: Dr Rodrigo Bini

Other supervisors: Dr Danilo De Oliveira Silva (LTU), Dr Jan Wilke (UB)

The aim of the project is to investigate the experiences of cyclists with knee pain including burden and symptoms and to compare the cycling biomechanics of those with and without knee pain. The project will also aim to co-design an intervention in conjunction with cyclists and clinicians to optimise cycling mechanics and loading on the body to prevent knee pain.

Benefits of the scholarship

• a stipend for up to three and a half (3.5) years, with a value of $34,000 per annum (2024 rate)
• a  Research Training Program - Fees Offset scholarship covering tuition fees for up to four (4) years.
• a travel allowance to assist with travel between Melbourne and Bayreuth and personal expenses while resident in Germany
• an allowance to relocate to Melbourne to commence the degree and publication/thesis allowance or RTP allowance
• opportunities to work with outstanding researchers at La Trobe and Bayreuth universities, and have access to our suite of professional development programs.