Turning Research Into Real-World Impact

The Applied Doctorates Scheme empowers top doctoral talent to bring science, tech, and innovation into the heart of Kiwi industry.

Update: Announcement of Selected Projects and Call for Student Applications

We wish to inform prospective candidates and stakeholders that the announcement of the selected projects for the inaugural cohort of the Applied Doctorates Scheme, along with the opening of the student application process, has been postponed to 13 November 2025.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we finalise the selection process to ensure the highest quality and alignment with the Scheme’s objectives.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact the ADS Secretariat at: secretariat@applieddoctorates.nz

Call for Projects for the
Inaugural Cohort is now closed.

Thank you to all that took part.

View Call

Focus Theme for the Inaugural Cohort
Aotearoa’s Path to Energy Innovation

We are seeking to fund doctoral-level research projects in the broad theme of energy.

We are looking for research that is future-focused and grounded in Aotearoa’s economic development goals, natural resources, emissions goals, and cultural values. We welcome a range of disciplinary approaches—including interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research—that contribute to renewable, equitable, and resilient energy solutions. These may be guided by Māori principles like kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga and should be aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in clean energy, climate action, and sustainable innovation.

About the Applied Doctorates Scheme

Established in 2025, the Applied Doctorates Scheme is a national programme designed to boost New Zealand’s economy by bridging the gap between groundbreaking scientific research and industry.

It equips top doctoral candidates from across the country with advanced business and entrepreneurial skills, connects them with industry leaders, and prepares them to tackle real-world challenges—transforming cutting-edge research into meaningful change in science, technology, and innovation.

The scheme is led by a consortium of the Victoria University of Wellington, University of Otago, Massey University, and University of Auckland and is funded with $20 million over five years by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

All New Zealand universities are invited to participate.

Innovation

Industry

Skills

“Businesses will benefit from improved access to advanced researchers, who have the skills to jump straight in and apply their knowledge, and students will be equipped with the skills they need to help grow New Zealand’s economy.”
Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti

“This scheme equips emerging researchers with the skills, kaupapa and networks to bring together the best of industry and academia to boost innovation and entrepreneurship nationally.”
University of Auckland | Waipapa Taumata Rau Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor JR Rowland

“The Applied Doctorate Scheme is a fantastic initiative and will act as a catalyst for bringing together the skills development and collaborative supervision of doctoral students so they are work-ready, able to make a real impact for Aotearoa.”
University of Massey | Te Kunenga Ki Pūrehuroa Dean, Postgraduate Research Professor Tracy Riley

“The future of a vibrant, innovation-driven economy hinges on our ability to work together. The applied doctorates scheme exemplify this by embedding doctoral talent directly within industry, ensuring research directly addresses market needs.”
University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka Dean, Graduate Research School Professor Diane Ruwhiu

“A key feature of the scheme is an unparalleled programme of extra-curricular learning, to develop professional skills including innovation and entrepreneurship so that, when the students graduate, they are primed to be the future leaders in their sector. This scheme will produce a new generation of PhD graduates who will go on to be leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.”
Victoria University of Wellington | Te Herenga Waka Dean, Faculty Graduate Research Professor Neil Dodgson