Inaugural Cohort
Call timeline
Call for Projects
The Applied Doctorates Scheme (ADS) invites submissions for the inaugural cohort of doctoral-level research projects. The theme for this inaugural call is Aotearoa’s Path to Energy Innovation.
The ADS Secretariat will be facilitating this and future calls on behalf of the partner universities – University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington, University of Otago, and Massey University.
In this inaugural round, the Scheme will fund 15 doctoral-level research projects exploring the broad theme of energy research that is future-focused and grounded in Aotearoa’s unique economic development goals, natural resources, emissions goals, and cultural values. A range of disciplinary approaches—including interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research—that contribute to renewable, equitable, and resilient energy solutions are welcome. These may be guided by Māori principles, like kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga, and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in clean energy, climate action, and sustainable innovation.
Call for Students
The Applied Doctorates Scheme invites applications from prospective students—both domestic and international—to be a part of the inaugural cohort. This is a unique opportunity to undertake doctoral study that is deeply embedded in real-world challenges and sector partnerships.
Scholarships are available for the 25 projects operating across participating New Zealand universities, each around the theme of Aotearoa’s Path to Energy Innovation. Successful applicants will be part of a single disciplinary cohort, operating in a rich, applied research environment where academic excellence meets industry relevance.
Embedding students in industry ensures their work will have direct relevance and impact. Alongside expert academic and sector supervision, they will also benefit from tailored training and development opportunities that extend beyond what is currently offered by individual universities.
The Applied Doctorates Scheme is the first of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand—offering successful applicants the chance to be a part of a new model of doctoral education, gain industry experience, and contribute to research that matters.
Conditions
- Full tuition fees covered for 3 years
- Annual stipend (NZD$35,501) for 3 years, with a 2% per year increase
- Insurance costs covered for international students
- Minimum 6 months embedded with an industry partner
- Participation in ADS annual conference and professional development programme
- Key skills development workshops offered online, delivered either live and facilitated by specialists, or as online asynchronous self-study
- A regular online speaker series featuring a range of industry and academic speakers
- Supervision by both academic and industry experts
- Access to pastoral care and cohort-based support
Closing date: 19 January 2026 at 23:59 NZST
Applicants Informed by: 31 March 2026
Please read all documents below, as well as the full project descriptions before beginning your application.
The following documentation will be required as part of the application process. Applicants are encouraged to review and prepare these materials in advance:
- CV in pdf format
- Expression of Interest in pdf format