Macquarie University Communicating the Science of Fresh produce bioactives 2025

Designed to benefit motivated individuals with a background in qualitative research, aiming to advance knowledge in bioactive-rich fresh produce through innovative methodologies and industry collaboration.

The project focuses on exploring ways of communicating the benefits of the plant bioactives in fresh produce in ways that can be easily understood by consumers.

Applications are invited for two PhD scholarship positions at Macquarie University, offered as part of an industry grant with Hort Innovation.

We seek candidates with interests aligned with the project's goals, particularly in areas such as science translation, consumer research, behaviour change, or public health. We are looking for candidates who can contribute to our goal of advancing public understanding of the science of bioactives in fresh produce.

Ideally, candidates should have a skills and interest in qualitative research methods along with a background in the social sciences, communication, marketing, consumer behaviour or a related field, to effectively contribute to the project's milestones in developing educational campaigns and communication strategies.

Collaboration across disciplines, especially across the social and biological sciences as well as media and communication, is essential to enrich the project's multistranded approach and support its focus on translating bioactive science.

In supporting the project’s outreach efforts, candidates will develop skills in science literacy, research design and science communication. The PhD candidates will be expected to deliver outputs aligned with the project's milestones.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and apply research methodologies to investigate consumer demand for bioactive-rich fresh produce.
• Study consumer preferences and behaviours regarding bioactive-rich plant foods.
• Work closely with industry partners to convert findings into practical recommendations.
• Participate in project meetings, seminars, and workshops to share knowledge.
• Prepare research manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirments
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineOctober 31, 2025
• Value$38,500 p.a. (2025 rate)
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorMacquarie University
• City to studyNew South Wales
• School to studyMacquarie University
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

The scholarships are comprised of:

• a tuition fee offset/scholarship
• a living allowance stipend.

The value of each stipend scholarship is $38,500 per annum (full time, indexed) for three years.

Requirements

This scholarship is available to eligible candidates to undertake a direct entry 3-year PhD program.

Awards will only be available to applicants who, at the time of application:

• Have completed a relevant research degree at Masters level or equivalent. This could be someone from food science, or nutrition looking to move into social research, public health or health communications, or someone from social sciences or media studies looking to engage in food science communication.
• Proficiency in qualitative research methods, with familiarity in quantitative research considered advantageous.
• Strong data analysis skills and experience with relevant tools
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to meet project deadlines.
• Demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research and a commitment to academic excellence.

Awards will not be available to those who:

• Have not met the minimum academic requirements stated above.
• Do not have a background or demonstrated interest in qualitative research methods or related fields.
• Are not eligible to work or study in Australia without sponsorship.
• Are unable to enrol and commence their studies between January 2025 and?1 April 2025.

Award-holders may:

• Work on a project funded by Hort Innovation, offering valuable exposure to industry-backed research initiatives.
• Access cutting-edge research facilities and professional development opportunities.
• Participate in a supportive multidisciplinary team committed project success.
• Engage with a vibrant research community and industry stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of educational campaigns and communication strategies promoting bioactive-rich fresh produce.

Application Deadline

October 31, 2025

How To Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to read about the Hort Innovation funded project, “The nutritional advantage of fresh produce: a focus on bioactive nutrients and their role in consumer demand (HN22003)” before applying.

• New applicants to Macquarie University should follow the steps on our How to Apply page.
• Applicants who are already enrolled, commenced the Macquarie PhD program, or have received a valid Macquarie University letter of offer for a graduate research program within the last six months, must:
  • download our guidelines on how to submit a Scholarship Only application
  • submit an online Graduate Research Scholarship Only application form with supporting documents
  • indicate the scholarship reference number under the scholarship details question.

Learn more about submitting an application.

Contact to make an enquiry:

• Paul Mason
  • T:+61 (2) 9850 4771
  • E:[email protected]

For more information, kindly visit Macquarie University scholarship webpage.