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• Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

As a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems.

Doctor of Philosophy is a higher degree obtained after a period of study primarily devoted to an extensive research project, culminating in the submission of a thesis.

The thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

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The aims, objectives and learning outcomes.

The aims, objectives and learning outcomes are as follows:

Aims:  Graduates will have undertaken a programme of independent supervised study that produces significant and original research outcomes culminating in a thesis for independent examination by at least two external expert examiners of international standing.

Objectives:  The research in the programme of learning will be conducted over a period of at least two year and typically this will constitute two-thirds or more of the qualification. The programme may also include advanced coursework or training to enhance the capacity of the student to make a significant contribution to knowledge in the discipline studied.

Learning outcomes: As demonstrated in the AQF level 10 criteria and MQF doctoral level 8:

       At the end of the programme, graduates should be able to:

• Demonstrate a critical and in-depth understanding of frontier knowledge by generating substantial and original contributions to a field and/or practice;
• Synthesise existing and new knowledge in one or more discipline areas to develop new concepts or interpretations or applications;
• Conduct rigorous and independent research or investigation with minimal supervision;
• Demonstrate intellectual leadership qualities and management skills;
• Perform research adhering to legal, ethical, professional and sustainable practices;
• Communicate cogently in the field/s and interact with specialist and general audience;
• Select and use suitable digital and analytical techniques to research problems; and
• Demonstrate commitment to lifelong learning and personal development.

Admission Requirements

Academic Qualifications

• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor with First Class Honours (CGPA of 3.67 or higher) or Upper Second Class Honours (CGPA≥ 3.0)*** in the field or related fields within Curtin University which includes the completion of a supervised research dissertation project carrying the equivalent credit of at least 25 percent of an annual full-time load; (***Candidate having Upper Second-Class Honours could be considered for a Doctoral direct entry upon demonstration of research competencies as verified and deemed by the Academic Board at Curtin University Malaysia)  or
• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Master of Philosophy or Master of Research in the field or related fields within Curtin University which includes the completion of a publically available thesis; or
• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree Master by Coursework in the field or related fields within Curtin University, and the completion of a research dissertation project carrying the equivalent credit of at least 25 percent of an annual full-time load and which has been awarded an assessed result at or above distinction level; or
•  Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree Master by Coursework at or above distinction level in the field or related fields within Curtin University, and the completion of substantive and relevant research experience which can be evidenced in at least one of the following forms: (1) substantial scholarly papers as sole or primary author, appearing in recognised academic journals or in volumes published by recognised academic publishers; (2) published research reports prepared for industry, government or business, which adhere to the broad conventions of academic publishing and which identify the applicant as sole or primary author; (3) a portfolio of creative work with a published critical discussion of that work, which demonstrates the applicant’s development of a scholarly approach to creative work as research investigation, for which the application is identified as sole or primary author; or
• Obtained qualifications from another institution which are recognised by tertiary admission authorities in   Australia and which are deemed to be equivalent to any of the above four criteria.

**Candidates without a qualification in the related fields or relevant working experience must undergo appropriate prerequisite courses determined by the University.

English Requirements

All courses at Curtin University Malaysia are taught in English. Therefore, applicants are required to satisfy Curtin University’s English language proficiency requirement for postgraduate coursework and Higher Degree by Research courses through one of the following ways:

1. Tertiary degree studies undertaken in Australia

Successful completion of one semester full-time (equivalent to 0.5 EFTSL) of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree level study at a recognised University in Australia.

2. Tertiary degree studies taught in English outside Australia

a). Successful completion of at least one semester full-time or equivalent of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree level study at a recognised University in  New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom; or

b). Successful completion of at least one year full-time or equivalent of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree level study at a recognised University in Canada, Singapore, South Africa or United States of America; or

c). Successful completion of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree from a recognised overseas University, assessed by Curtin University as comparable to the educational level of an Australian Bachelor or Master Degree in which Curtin University recognised English is the sole language of instruction*.

*Internal Assessment notes:

1) Use the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to retrieve the language of instruction. Exceptions apply, see details below.

2) Except for European countries, if the language of instruction listed in the Diploma Supplement is English, we accept this information over WHED as it is at course level.

3) Assumption University, Thailand, English is the medium of instruction for all courses except for Undergraduate Law degree.

3. Undertake an approved English proficiency test.

Any one of the tests in the following table can also be accepted as satisfying Curtin University Malaysia’s English language requirement:

*Results for IELTS and TOEFL are valid for two years.

Applicants who do not meet the above requirement (or qualifications not listed above) will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and provided with alternative pathways where necessary.

Completion of a bachelor degree course in which English was the language of instruction is also considered as meeting the English language requirement. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Enrolment and Duration of Study

Enrolment in the PhD shall be for a minimum period of two (2) years and a maximum period of four (4) years for full-time study, or a minimum of four (4) years and a maximum period of eight (8) years for part-time study. However, international candidates must enroll as a full-time student.

Remarks. For PhD students under Curtin Malaysia Postgraduate Scholarship (CMPRS), the full scholarships are only awarded for three years. Scholarship extensions (tuition fee waiver only) of 2 x 3 months may be granted subject to good progress of the project and approval from CMGS. Therefore, these students are strongly recommended to complete their programmes within three years. Otherwise, students and/or their supervisor may have to provide the tuition fee and stipend on their own in the fourth year.

For PhD students under external grants, such as FRGS, SMA, SRDC, etc,  the grant is generally valid for max three years. Therefore, the tuition fee waiver  duration will only cover until the grant end date. Consequently, these students are also strongly encouraged to graduate within three years. Tuition fee waiver extensions of 2 x 3 months may be granted subject to good progress of the project and approval from Chair of CMGSC. Otherwise, they may have to be self-funded for the tuition fee and stipend in the fourth year.

Study Support

Consumables Support

HDR Consumables Reimbursable Items List (subject to prior approval from CMGS)

•  Expenses related to fieldwork/research data collection;
• Transcription from interviews, and translation services;
• Lab consumables purchased through an approved University provider (where not provided by the Enrolling Area);
• Workshops and training courses (including registration, travel, accommodation and living); Specialist textbooks/manuals, journals (where not readily available in the Curtin Library);
• Phone costs – Purchase of phone cards for participation calls to survey recipients (where access to a Curtin phone is not available);
• Thesis binding, editing and proof-reading costs;
• Incentives for research/survey participants on the express written permission (email) of the supervisor (this will never include tobacco or alcohol);
• Creative production costs – e.g. Art and design equipment and supplies (inclusive of set design, technical support, post-production/editing, studio hire, film/developing);
• Travel for off-campus students to supervisory meetings (this may extend to travel interstate or overseas where relevant);
• Specialist software (project specific);
• Safety equipment (project specific);
• Other miscellaneous costs as approved by CMGS

Curtin Malaysia Postgraduate Research Studentship (CMPRS)

An awardee will receive a stipend of RM2,100 per month and fee waiver for a period of 3 years. In return, awardees are expected to contribute a maximum of 4 hours of teaching load per week and learning and teaching (L&T) activities during the semesters.

Partial Fee Waiver and/or Partial Stipend

Please contact [email protected] for the details

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Each research student joins one of the vibrant research communities based on the chosen research area. You can find more information regarding research areas by visiting the relevant academic area:

Associate Professor Dr. John Lau Sie Yon Associate Dean, Research & Development Email: [email protected]

Dr Tiong Ying Ying Associate Dean, Research & Development Email: [email protected]

Faculty of Humanities & Health Sciences

Professor Dr. Roy Rillera Marzo Dean, Faculty of Humanities & Health Sciences Email: [email protected]

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Apply - find out how

We offer research degrees in most disciplines, for those who hold a master degree or bachelor degree with first or upper-second class honours.

As a doctoral research degree candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems.

A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

Throughout your studies, our faculties will provide you with access to equipment and resources to support your research, and financial assistance to attend appropriate local and international conferences.

Why research at Curtin

Curtin is widely recognised for applied research firmly focused on solving real-world problems. Underpinning our research endeavours are strong partnerships with industry, business and government, which result in outcomes that greatly benefit the broader community locally, nationally and globally. Our international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures our graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields. Find out more about our research at Curtin Singapore here .

Learning outcomes

Doctoral Degrees require students to undertake a program of independent supervised study and produce significant and original research outcomes culminating in a thesis, dissertation, exegesis or equivalent for independent examination.

• Demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that knowledge and their practice
• Think critically, evaluate existing knowledge and ideas, undertake systematic investigation and reflect on theory and practice to generate original knowledge
• Apply expert creative, technical and professional skills to the field of work or learning
• Explain and critique theoretical propositions, methodologies and conclusions
• Present a complex investigation of originality or original research for external examination against international standards
• Communicate complex research concepts, plans and outcomes to the general community, peers and the national and international research community
• Design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice

Admission criteria

Applicants for a Doctoral Degree are required to meet University academic and English language entry standards. Applicants require a Master Degree (Research) or Bachelor Honours Degree (first or second class) or a high standard in either a Master Degree (Coursework) or Bachelor Degree with a Graduate Diploma (or equivalent).

Tuition fees are payable over semester instalments.

Fees listed are indicative and subject to annual increases.

View our fees and charges page for full details.

The TrEnD laboratory has a number of academic staff , technical staff , PhD & honours students that work across our three main research disciplines: eDNA, aDNA and genomics. If you are interested in joining our team as a student or postdoc feel free to drop us a line.

Prof Morten E. Allentoft Head of the TrEnD Laboratory

> View Google Scholar profile

Morten is an evolutionary biologist and was recruited in mid-2020 to lead the TrEnD Lab. He obtained a PhD from Canterbury University, New Zealand in 2011 and then established himself as a group leader at Centre for GeoGenetics (University of Copenhagen, Denmark). He has a background in ancient DNA (aDNA) research, working primarily on population genetics of extinct megafauna and ancient humans, and aDNA method development. Although Morten is still engaged in ancient DNA projects, most of his current research revolves around molecular evolution, population genetics and conservation genetics – with a particular passion for reptiles and amphibians. His vision for the TrEnD Lab is to practice a holistic form of molecular ecology by merging eDNA, aDNA and genomic disciplines. While based at Curtin University, Allentoft maintains a fractional affiliation with University of Copenhagen , ensuring a strong collaborative connection across the two continents.

Dr Claus Christophersen Senior Research Fellow

> Scientific Lead – WA Human Microbiome Collaboration Centre (WAHMCC) > Edith Cowan University, Public Health and Nutrition Dietetics, Joondalup Campus. > View Google Scholar profile

He leads the WA Human Microbiome Collaboration Centre (WAHMCC) at Curtin University. He has an MSc from the University of Copenhagen and a PhD from the University of Western Australia. He then undertook a postdoctoral appointment and later became a research scientist and team leader in CSIRO Food & Nutrition before returning to Perth.

Claus is a molecular microbiologist specialising in the role and impact of the gut microbiome in health. He participates in multi-disciplinary research to understand how diets or supplements can improve health or prevent diseases. He has a special interest in the maternal and infant microbiome and the ability of “prebiotic fibres”, and recently exercise, to improve gut health. Claus has a range of collaborators; clinicians, immunologists, biochemists, biostatisticians, nutritionist/dietitians, food scientist, behavioural therapists and others, as he is interested in the systems biology.

Claus’ motto: The Gut is the Key to your Health!

Dr. Zoe Richards Senior Research Fellow

> View Google Scholar Profile

Zoe is a coral biologist (molecular ecology and taxonomic expertise) and a Senior Research Fellow. Zoe completed her PhD at James Cook University on the implications of rarity for Acropora conservation and now leads the CORE research group which specialises in the area of coral biodiversity and how best to monitor and protect it. Active areas of current research include examining the ecology and resilience of coral communities in Western Australia, examining the response of coral biodiversity to disturbance and resolving taxonomic problems with total evidence approaches. Zoe is also involved in numerous phylogenomic, population genetic and eDNA projects that aim to explore species divergence, ecological connectivity and benthic biodiversity.

Current Students in the Coral Research Group: Katrina West (Postdoc); Arne Adam (PhD); Jason Alexander (PhD); David Juszkiewicz (PhD); Georgia Nester (PhD); Sophie Preston (Masters); Rodrigo Garcia (Remote Sensing Specialist and Adjunct Research Scientist).

Dr. Nicole White Senior Research Officer and TrEnD Lab Manager

Nicole is a Research Scientist and the Lab Manager for the Trace and Environmental DNA Laboratory. Nicole’s research focuses on the use of cutting-edge and traditional molecular approaches for the conservation and protection of Australia’s unique fauna. In 2012, Nicole obtained her PhD in Biological Sciences and her research program focused on the development and application of genetic tools for the conservation, management and protection of Western Australia’s endangered white-tailed black-cockatoo species. Since 2012, Nicole completed a post-doc in ancient DNA, conservation genetics and wildlife forensics at Murdoch University prior to joining Curtin University in 2014. Nicole’s current research involves the development of eDNA tools for subterranean fauna detection from environmental substrates such as groundwater and sediment.

Dr. Paul Nevill Senior Lecturer

> Genetics Lead – Australian Research Council Centre for Mine Site Restoration (CMSR) >  View Google Scholar profile

Paul’s research focuses on the use of the latest molecular approaches for the conservation and the recovery of ecosystems. Paul is interested in the use of molecular ecology to understand the genetic factors that impact threatened species and in the use of genetics to improve restoration monitoring. Since 2010 Paul has completed a post-doc in conservation genetics at Kings Park Botanic Garden prior to joining Curtin University in 2015. During and post-PhD studies, Paul has established collaborations with government agencies, private industries and other academic institutions. Paul mentors and supervises HDR students and is also involved in undergraduate teaching at Curtin University.

Current Students: Sheree Walters (PhD), Mieke van der Heyde (PhD), Kristen Fernandes (PhD), Kaylene Craig (PhD), Joshua Kestel (PhD)

Sherralee Lukehurst Research Officer

Sherralee is an experienced Molecular Biologist, who has previously worked at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in the areas of fish health and aquatic biosecurity. In her current position, funded by the eDGES program, Sherralee is working on enhancing and validating the use of eDNA metabarcoding techniques for the purpose of detecting high priority Invasive Marine Species (IMS) for biosecurity applications.

Postdoctoral researchers

Mahsa Mousavi Mousaviderazmahalleh 

Mahsa completed her PhD at The University of Western Australia on narrow-leafed lupin domestication and biodiversity, which also involved developing genomic resources for seven of its fungal pathogens using bioinformatic approaches. Inspired by the transferability of bioinformatics, she joined TrEnD in 2018 as a post-doctoral researcher working on an NHMRC funded project to determine the causative agents of tick-borne disease in Australia using metabarcoding techniques. Her current research focus is on developing genomic resources for the Pilbara Olive Python which is part of the eDGES program. In addition, she develops pipelines and scripts for data analysis, and provide bioinformatic support to students and staff. She is also affiliated with eDNA frontiers, which provides environmental DNA services to a variety of industries, such as oil/gas and fisheries.

Mattia Sacco

Mattia is a TrEnD post-doctoral researcher interested in freshwater environments and the incorporation of multidisciplinary designs into the study of functional ecology. He completed his PhD at Curtin University on the ecological dynamics sustaining the subterranean biota of a West Australian groundwater ecosystem, a study that involved state-of-the-art isotopic and molecular techniques. His current project, funded by the eDGES program, focuses on the use of isotope analysis (SIA and CSIA) and eDNA technology to monitor biodiversity and characterize the ecosystem functioning of hypersaline lakes within the Chilean precordillera. Given the interdisciplinarity of his work and international experience, Mattia has an extended network of collaborators in Europe, America and Australia.

Mieke van der Heyde

Mieke is currently a Research Associate with the Trace and Environmental DNA (TrEnD) Laboratory. Her research focus is developing and applying eDNA methods to monitor terrestrial and subterrestrial ecosystems. Mieke completed her PhD in 2020 with the ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration (CMSR) and the TrEnD Labs. Her research focussed on the application of eDNA surveys to monitor soil microbes, vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants during mine site restoration. In late 2020, Mieke started her post-doc position at Curtin studying underground communities living in the groundwater (stygofauna).

Technical staff

Matthew Heydenrych

Matt is a Masters student under the supervision of Assoc Prof Simon Jarman and Prof Mike Bunce. He completed his undergraduate BSc in Environmental Biology at Curtin University in 2018, and has been working in the TrEnD lab since 2016 as a Research Technician. During the last few years he has been involved in a range of projects, mainly around eDNA metabarcoding, and especially from water samples. His Honours project is in epigenetics and is focused on developing an ageing system for Pilot and Sperm whales based off their methylation profiles.

PhD students

Alishum Ali

Alishum Ali is a multidisciplinary scientist who completed his undergraduate and honours studies at Murdoch University. His qualifications revolve around human biology & chemistry such as molecular biology and biochemistry. In 2017, he enrolled in a PhD program at Curtin University’s TrEnD lab with Professor Mike Bunce and Dr Claus Christophersen supported by a PhD scholarship from WAHMCC. His decision to do a PhD was intricately personal, due to his son “Yusif” being born preterm and now his PhD project concentrates on preventing preterm birth. Technically, he will be working with samples and data collected in a local hospital by the Western Australian Pregnancy Biobank (WAPB). He will generate and integrate patient multi-Omics data using machine learning models to discover predictive biomarkers.

In the TrEnD lab, Ali will be using DNA metabarcoding, shot-gun sequencing and bioinformatics for in-depth characterization of the pregnancy microbiome. His study design will assess biomarkers before and after current intervention. He envisages that the research will eventually help obstetricians deliver better health care to vulnerable women.

Kristen Fernandes

Kristen is a PhD candidate undertaking a co-enrolled PhD with Curtin University and the University of Copenhagen. She is under the supervision of Prof Michael Bunce, Dr Paul Nevill, Prof Tom Gilbert, and Dr Kristine Bohmann. Kristen completed her undergraduate studies and honours at Curtin University in 2017 examining the recovery of insect communities at restored mine sites through invertebrate DNA (iDNA) metabarcoding. Her PhD research further explores this area of research and focuses on looking at the recovery of insect communities and the communities of organisms (both macro and micro) that they vector after changes in land uses using iDNA metabarcoding techniques.

Arne is a PhD candidate started in June 2018 under the supervision of Dr. Zoe Richards, Adjunct Professor Mike Bunce and Dr. Luke Thomas (AIMS). Arne completed his undergraduate studies in 2012 at the University of Ghent (Belgium), examining the foraging behaviour of Atlantic cod at windmill farms at the North Sea. In 2013, he finished his masters at the University of Brussels (Belgium), determining the efficiency and feasibility of using airlift suction device to sample hard substrate macrofauna. After working in the areas of bio- and genetic monitoring of fish and benthic communities in the North Sea and researching teeth development in zebrafish, Arne moved to Sydney to study habitat complexity in temperate and tropical reefs using 3D photogrammetry before working as a research assistant at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, researching a new model for cardiac trabeculation in early heart development. His PhD project will focus on estimating how coral reefs in Western Australia will be transformed in the future by applying species distribution modelling. Furthermore, he will integrate ecological and genomic data to further inform these models and provide better predictions of future coral distributions in WA.

Jason Alexander

Jason is a PhD student under the supervision of Prof Euan Harvey and Dr Zoe Richards. Jason completed his undergraduate studies in Marine Science and Conservation Biology at Murdoch University in 2004. Jason then, between travelling, worked as a Zoologist for an environmental consultancy. Jason’s honours project involved the design of specific genetic primer sets and the detection of reef-building coral diversity from environmental DNA and in his PhD project he is extending those skills to examining the biodiversity of artificial reefs.

Georgia Nester

Georgia is an PhD student under the supervision of Prof Mike Bunce, Prof Euan Harvey and Dr Zoe Richards. Georgia completed her undergraduate studies at Curtin University in 2017. Georgia’s honours project involved developing environmental DNA assays capable of detecting cryptic and endangered Syngnathid species in various aquatic environments. Her PhD project seeks to examine ‘blue biodiversity’, that is the biodiversity in understudied deepwater and southern ocean pelagic ecosystems.

David Juszkiewicz

David completed his first class honours project under the supervision of Prof Mike Bunce and Dr Zoe Richards after finding an interest in scleractinian (hard-coral) taxonomy during his volunteering experiences at the West Australian Museum and Department of Parks and Wildlife. For his honours project, Davids undertook a phylogeographic study of the scleractinia Plesiastrea versipora, and he is extending that approach to the genus Porites in his PhD.

Josh Kestel

My area of interest is in pollination biology, specifically, the genetic consequences of different animal vectors for the plants they pollinate. I completed my Bachelor of Science majoring in botany and genetics at the University of Western Australia (UWA). Subsequently, I undertook my Honours research project with UWA and Kings Park Science examining bird pollination of the common catspaw (Anigozanthos humilis subsp. humilis). Now I have commenced my PhD using environmental DNA metabarcoding to examine plant-pollinator networks in avocado orchards in south west Western Australia.

Jacquelyn Jones

The link between the gut microbiome and human health continues to be of great interest, with a number of inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases as well as neurological disorders, linked to shifts in microbial community structure. Colonization of the infant gut by commensal microorganisms may be the most important processes for maintaining the long-term stability of the microbiome. Therefore, intervention strategies that promote a healthy infant microbiome may be beneficial in preventing the onset of inflammatory disorders which develop in infancy and early childhood. Through an assessment of faecal microorganisms and metabolites in pregnant mothers, infants, and young children, this project aims to reveal subtle changes in microbial composition and metabolic response which correlate with the progression of Autism Spectrum Disorder, or allergic diseases. This investigation will use next generation sequencing technology as well as gas chromatography, both of which have been invaluable tools for microbiome research. A final aim of this project is to evaluate and recommend fecal sampling techniques that can be adopted by researchers also intending to assess the gut microbiome using data generated with these same techniques.

Kaylene Craig

Kaylene is a PhD candidate under the supervision of Dr Alison Blyth, Dr Paul Nevill, Dr Morten Allentoft, Prof Kingsley Dickson, Dr Lynne Milne. She completed her undergraduate double degree (BSc Applied Geology and Environmental Biology) (2017) and Honours (2018) at Curtin University. She studied the changing environmental conditions identified at Lake Chittering, north of Perth, WA, using elemental profiles and pollen for vegetation reconstructions from sediment cores. In 2019 Kaylene began her PhD thesis on the Paleoenvironment in the swamps of the southwest of Australia. Her project will use a large variety of independent proxies to test the hypothesis that although changing climate can cause stress on vegetation, it requires a destructive force, such as fire, to completely change the vegetation assemblage.

Master students

Matthew Power

Matt has been working in the Trend lab since 2014 as a Research Assistant, where he has been involved in wide range of research projects, most notably analysis of complementary and alternative medicines, dietary analysis and biodiversity surveys of terrestrial and marine species and analysis of past floral distributions using sedimentary ancient DNA. Before that he worked in both New Zealand and Sweden as a science technician.

Matt is currently a Masters student using sedimentary ancient DNA collected from Arctic sediment cores to investigate past faunal distributions.

Sophie Preston

Sophie Preston is a Master of Research student, supervised by Dr. Zoe Richards and Dr. Kar-Chun Tan. Her project focusses on a combined traditional and molecular approach to diagnosing the scleractinian coral disease, growth anomalies. Her research is a combination of ecological surveys, histology, geochemistry, bacterial metabarcoding and environmental DNA. Prior to her Masters, she completed a Bachelor of Science (Coastal and Marine Science) at Curtin University in 2018.

Honours students

Amy Carmignani

Amy is an honours student under the supervision of Dr Zoe Richards. She completed her undergraduate BSc in Environmental Management & Sustainability and Marine & Wildlife Biology at Murdoch University in 2020 after a career change away from legal administration (or more accurately; after travelling and working overseas on conservation projects). She currently works for the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and is a committee member of the Murdoch University Divers Club. She has participated in a range of fieldwork relating to corals, seagrass, estuaries, marine ecology, plants, mammals and birds. Her Honours project is focused on examining the ecophysiology of mesophotic corals at Ashmore Reef. She will be undertaking a deep sea expedition on board the R/V Falkor and will collaborate with researchers at the WA Museum, Australian Institute of Marine Science and Museum of Tropical Queensland.

Joel Bennett

Joel is an honours student under the supervision of Dr Zoe Richards. He completed his undergraduate BSc in Coastal and Marine Science at Curtin University in 2020, after traveling North America and South East Asia for two years. He is interested in marine mammal and fish ecology, particularly along the Western Australian coastline. His Honours project is focused on utilizing eDNA approaches to advance knowledge about dugong populations, habitat use and diet. He collaborates with Associate Professor Kathryn McMahon at Edith Cowan University and Dr William Robbins from the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions.

Project title: Demonstration of the potential of environmental DNA as a tool for the detection of avian species

Josh Newton

Project title: Who is living in Perth’s trees: monitoring their role as homes for fauna with eDNA

Adjunct Staff, Collaborators and Visiting Fellows

• Adjunct Prof. Mike Bunce, NZ Environmental Protection Authority
• Dr Sarah Crump, University of Colorado Boulder
• Prof. Simon Jarman, University of Western Australia
• Dr. Joey DiBattista, Curator of Fishes, Australian Museum
• Dr. Michael Stat, Newcastle University
• Shaun Wilkinson, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
• Dr Jim Underwood, Research Scientist, Australian Institute of Marine Science
• Dr James Gilmour, Senior Research Scientist, Australian Institute of Marine Science
• Dr Luke Thomas, Postdoctoral Fellow, UWA Oceans Institute
• Dr Rodrigo Garcia, Adjunct Research Scientist Curtin University , Research Scientist University of Massachusetts and Geosciences Australia
• Assoc Prof Kathryn McMahon, Edith Cowan University
• Michelle Gaither, Assistant Professor, University of Central Florida
• James Reimer, Associate Professor, University of the Ryukyus, Japan
• Dr. Laura Gajdzik
• Mr Adam Koziol
• Dr. Tiffany Simpson
• Dr. Rose Lines
• Dr Giulia Perina, Western Australian Museum

Past students

• Morten Allentoft (PhD)
• Megan Coghlan (PhD)
• Alicia Grealy (PhD)
• Nicole White (PhD)
• Charlotte Oskam (PhD)
• Daithi Murray (PhD)
• Dalal Haouchar (Honours & PhD)
• Mieke van der Heyde (PhD)
• Silvana Tridico (PhD)
• Tina Berry (Honours & PhD)
• Brendan Chapman (Honours)
• Elizabeth Baker (Honours)
• Emma Ryan (Honours)
• Jeffery John (Honours)
• Helen Hunt (Honours)
• Matthew Heydenrych (Honours & Masters)
• Ethan Ryan (Honours)
• Emilija Lozenicins (Honours)
• Kristen Fernandes (Honours)
• Georgia Nester (Honours)
• Elizabeth Crompton (Masters)
• David Juszkiewicz (Honours)
• Jason Alexander (Honours)
• Miwa Takahashi (PhD)
• Katrina West (PhD)
• Frederik Valeur Seersholm (PhD)

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DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PHD)

As a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems. Doctor of Philosophy is a higher degree obtained after a period of study primarily devoted to an extensive research project, culminating in the submission of a thesis. The thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

AWARDING BODY

Curtin University

MODE OF DELIVERY

Supervised research study

MODE & DURATION OF STUDY

Full-time: 2 to 3 years or Part-time: 4 to 6 years

ENTRY REQUIREMENT

1. Academic Qualifications

• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor with First Class Honours or Upper Second Class Honours* (CGPA≥ 3.0) within Curtin University which includes the completion of a supervised research dissertation project carrying the equivalent credit of at least 25 percent of an annual full-time load.*Candidate having Upper Second-Class Honours could be considered for a Doctoral direct entry upon demonstration of research competencies as verified and deemed by the Academic Board at Curtin University Malaysia.
• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Master of Philosophy or Master of Research within Curtin University which includes the completion of a publically available thesis.
• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree Master by Coursework within Curtin University, and the completion of a research dissertation project carrying the equivalent credit of at least 25 percent of an annual full-time load and which has been awarded an assessed result at or above distinction level.
• Graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree Master by Coursework at or above distinction level within Curtin University, and the completion of substantive and relevant research experience which can be evidenced in at least one of the following forms:
• substantial scholarly papers as sole or primary author, appearing in recognised academic journals or in volumes published by recognised academic publishers;
• published research reports prepared for industry, government or business, which adhere to the broad conventions of academic publishing and which identify the applicant as sole or primary author; or
• a portfolio of creative work with a published critical discussion of that work, which demonstrates the applicant’s development of a scholarly approach to creative work as research investigation, for which the application is identified as sole or primary author;
• Obtained qualifications from another institution which are recognised by tertiary admission authorities in Australia and which are deemed to be equivalent to above four criteria.

2. English Requirements

All courses at Curtin University Malaysia are taught in English. Therefore, applicants are required to satisfy Curtin University’s English language proficiency requirement for postgraduate coursework and Higher Degree by Research courses through one of the following ways:

• Tertiary degree studies undertaken in Australia

Successful completion of one semester full-time (equivalent to 0.5 EFTSL) of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree level study at a recognised University in Australia.

• Tertiary degree studies taught in English outside Australia
• Successful completion of at least one semester full-time or equivalent of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree level study at a recognised University in  New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom; or
• Successful completion of at least one year full-time or equivalent of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree level study at a recognised University in Canada, Singapore, South Africa or United States of America; or
• Successful completion of an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree from a recognised overseas University, assessed by Curtin University as comparable to the educational level of an Australian Bachelor or Master Degree in which Curtin University recognised English is the sole language of instruction*.

*Internal Assessment notes:

• Use the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to retrieve the language of instruction. Exceptions apply, see details below.
• Except for European countries, if the language of instruction listed in the Diploma Supplement is English, we accept this information over WHED as it is at course level.
• Assumption University, Thailand, English is the medium of instruction for all courses except for Undergraduate Law degree.
• Undertake an approved English proficiency test.

Any one of the tests in the following table can also be accepted as satisfying Curtin University Malaysia’s English language requirement:

*Results for IELTS and TOEFL are valid for two years.

Applicants who do not meet the above requirement (or qualifications not listed above) will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and provided with alternative pathways where necessary.

Completion of a bachelor degree course in which English was the language of instruction is also considered as meeting the English language requirement. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

STUDY SUPPORT

• A work station with 24 hours access
• Stationery support including paper, printing, photocopy
• Research room – well equipped with data and software
• RM1,400/year of financial support for consumables and fieldwork related spending.
• Opportunity to attend specialised research training seminars, professorial training workshops, national or international conferences supported by the University.
• Full online access to research supporting resources (including international journals, conference proceedings, e-books, etc.) provided by the parent campus.

SCHOLARSHIP

• Limited scholarships are available under the  Curtin Sarawak Postgraduate Research Scheme . An awardee currently receives a stipend of RM2,100 per month and tuition fees will also be waived. In return, awardees are expected to contribute a maximum of 8 hours of teaching activities per week during semesters.
• Limited number of fee waivers are available under Curtin Malaysia Graduate School . An awardee currently receives a fully or partially course fee waiver only. In return, awardees are expected to contribute a maximum of 8 hours of teaching activities per week during semesters.

TUITION FEE

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Why is Kpop so popular?

It has been over a decade since Psy – the sharply-dressed, sunglasses-sporting South Korean popstar – and his paean to the trendy lifestyles of a Seoul suburb, “Gangnam Style”, became the first video to be streamed more than one billion times on YouTube. In the years since, the growing influence of “K-culture”  – alternately called the “Korean Wave”, or “Hallyu” – has transformed the spheres of music, fashion, TV, cinema, make-up, food and beyond the world over. 

Yet for all the positive feelings of novelty and spontaneity attached to the meme-like, global popularity of a moment like “Gangnam Style” – the “where did this come from?” of it all – the story of how K-pop came to take a central place in global culture is even more compelling. The rise of the K-culture phenomenon is far from a case of overnight success … rather, it’s in keeping with the dedicated “segyehwa” (literally, “globalisation”) strategy that initially put South Korea on the road to economic internationalisation in the mid-1990s. K-culture today is a big export.

Here at Curtin, the developments of Korean culture have long been in focus. We introduced WA’s first Korean Studies degree program in 1992 –  recently re-launched as the Korean Studies Major (Bachelor of Arts) – and we’re also proud to host the Korea Research and Engagement Centre , a hub for Korean Studies teaching and research that’s helping to deepen the collective understanding of Korea’s sizeable impact and contributions across the global stage.

Part of the team tracking K-culture’s impact is Associate Professor Jo Elfving-Hwang. Intrigued by the cultural and sociological layers of K-pop, Elfving-Hwang’s research looks at how beauty work and cosmetic surgery in Korea relate to expressions of social class, status and race.

Ahead of our discussion with Professor Elfving-Hwang on The Future Of: Korean Wave ( podcast episode now available here ) – we caught up to explore the phenomenon that is the Korean Wave, how it came to be and why it matters.

Q: What sparked the global ascension of Korean pop culture, and how has it maintained its momentum?

A: Elfving-Hwang: The global ascension of Korean pop culture was a gradual process. Initially, Korea wasn’t well-known culturally, largely due to political censorship that lasted until the early nineties. But as the country embraced democratisation, there was a newfound freedom that allowed artists to experiment and express themselves more openly. Bands like Taiji and the Boys, who emerged in the early nineties, marked the beginning of a domestic phenomenon, capturing the raw, rebellious spirit of youth and igniting a fan culture that Korea had not seen before – while also borrowing elements from Japanese and American music. With the government’s push for globalisation under the Segyehwa policy, cultural products, especially cinema, began to receive more attention, paving the way for the broader Korean Wave. 

The adoption of digital media – the early internet and then global platforms including YouTube – propelled Korean content to international fame. But what’s maintained the momentum is how Korean pop culture managed to stay innovative.  Artists combined traditional Korean elements with global music trends, like US hip-hop, which resonated with international audiences. Also, as the digital age progressed, K-pop especially harnessed the power of social media and online communities.

Fandoms became more organised, fan movements more strategic, and the music itself even adapted to new forms of technology. The Korean Wave has thrived not just because of its content, but because of its adaptability and the sense of belonging it fosters among fans worldwide. And even during economic downturns – the Asian financial crisis, the pandemic, etc. – K-pop and Korean dramas provided a form of escapism and a virtual community for fans. The drive of Korean pop culture is about constant evolution, reflecting Korea’s narrative while also being flexible enough to incorporate international tastes, which keeps it growing and maintaining its global presence.

Q: How has the international success of K-pop groups like BTS and BLACKPINK influenced the perception of Korean culture as a whole?

A: Elfving-Hwang: The international success of K-pop groups such as BTS and BLACKPINK has significantly altered global perceptions of Korean culture. Initially, Korea’s cultural exports were limited and not well-known outside its borders. What’s fascinating is how these groups, embodying the youthful energy and innovative spirit of modern Korea, have become cultural ambassadors. Their narratives, often woven into their music and public personas, speak of perseverance, self-love, and community, which resonate globally – their international success has challenged and reshaped stereotypes about Asian artists and cultures, prompting a re-evaluation and deeper appreciation of Korea’s contributions to global arts and culture. In essence, they’ve made Korean culture accessible and appealing to a worldwide audience, leading to an unprecedented cultural diffusion that continues to draw people into exploring and appreciating the myriad facets of Korea’s cultural heritage.

PULLQUOTE: “ Their narratives, often woven into their music and public personas, speak of perseverance, self-love, and community, which resonate globally.”

Q: Can you discuss the impact of Korean pop culture on diasporic communities and its role in shaping their identity?

A: Elfving-Hwang: Korean pop culture has emerged as a crucial element of identity and representation for diasporic communities around the globe.  Through the universal language of music, drama, and art, it offers these communities a unique way to connect with their heritage, fostering a sense of pride and belonging. 

In academic settings, like the ones I’ve been involved with at Curtin , you can see the tangible impact of this cultural exploration. Students, especially those from diasporic backgrounds, engage deeply, finding reflections of their own experiences and challenges. It’s fascinating how Korean pop culture, through its narratives and community, acts as a vibrant medium for these communities to explore and assert their identities. It’s not just about the music or the dramas; it’s about the dialogue it creates around cultural diversity, representation, and inclusion. This phenomenon has essentially opened up a global conversation, allowing these communities to showcase their heritage and engage with a wider audience proudly. In a positive light, Korean popular culture can empower across geographical and generational divides. 

Where next?

Standing at the east gate of COEX mall in Gangnam, Psy’s megahit now has its own commemorative statue. Popular with tourists and visitors from across the globe, who often queue for a chance to take a selfie under its arches, the piece features two giant hands, fixed in the interweaved pose of the iconic “galloping” dance that accompanied the song. A fun piece of space activation on the part of the mall that plays a starring role in the video for “Gangnam Style”, certainly – but also a metaphor for K-culture’s enduring prominence on the global stage. The message is clear: a flash-in-the-pan “one-hit wonder” this phenomenon certainly is not. K-culture is here to stay.

Whether you’re excited by the ever-evolving phantasmagoria of Korean pop culture, or seeking to delve deeper into the factors underpinning the continued global prominence of Hallyu, check out the Korean Studies Major (Bachelor of Arts) . We also provide a complete Korean Studies major, fully online, through both Curtin and the Open Universities Australia (OUA) platforms – as well as offering programs for higher degree by research (HDR) study within the Korean Research Centre . If you are interested in undertaking any Korean studies courses, feel free to contact us .

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