PhD Scholarship - AI-Enabled Geothermal Systems for Sustainable Buildings at Deakin University 2026

Supporting a PhD candidate as part of the REACH Trailblazer Program to initiate and conduct research in AI-enhanced optimisation of geothermal building systems.

This PhD project aims to advance the performance and reliability of geothermal heat pump systems for sustainable buildings by integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence techniques.

The research will analyse real-world system performance against design expectations, identify and resolve operational inefficiencies in collaboration with industry partners, and develop AI-driven optimisation strategies to enhance temperature control, flow rates, and coefficient of performance (COP).

Table of Content

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

Summary

• Application DeadlineNot Specified
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorDeakin University
• City to studyVictoria
• School to studyDeakin University
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

The scholarships is available over three years (possible six-month extension) and offers:

• a stipend of $45,550 per annum tax exempt (2025 rate)
• a relocation allowance of $500–1,500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
• contribution to research purposes including travel of $1,500 per annum for three years.
• a once-off $5,000 conference travel allowance
• an annual research allowance of $1,100 (per year)

For international students, the awardee will also receive:

• tuition fees offset for the duration of four years
• single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.

Requirements

To be eligible you must:

• meet Deakin's PhD entry requirements
• enrol full time
• hold an honours degree (first class) or an equivalent standard masters degree with substantial research component.

Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page for further information.

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Please email your CV and cover letter (including your interest in the project) to A/Prof Hong Xian Li: [email protected]. 
  Your CV should highlight your skills, education, publications and relevant work experience. If successful, you will then be invited to submit a formal application. 

For more information, kindly visit the Deakin University Scholarship webpage.