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2026 PhD Opportunities
The Future of Work Institute is currently inviting expressions of interest from prospective PhD candidates in Business Administration who are considering applying for a 2026 Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship.​
Is a PhD the right next step for me?
Are you excited by the idea of conducting original research that could influence how millions of people experience work? Do you thrive on deep, sustained investigation into complex workplace problems?
If you are intellectually curious, passionate about addressing complex workplace challenges, and eager to make a meaningful impact through research, pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) may be the ideal next step. At the Future of Work Institute (FOWI), we welcome candidates who are passionate about improving work and contributing to healthier, more productive workforces.
What support and funding options are available?
Eligible candidates may receive a Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, funded by the Australian Government. Each scholarship includes:
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Tax-free living stipend
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Tuition fee offset
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Additional allowances for research expenses
In addition to financial support, you will benefit from a rich research experience, including:
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Opportunities to collaborate on industry-funded projects that shape real-world policy and practice
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Individualised supervision and mentoring from internationally recognised researchers
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A collaborative, inclusive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth
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Publication and writing support to help you build a strong academic profile
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Access to conferences and networking opportunities to connect with global experts and peers
Which research projects are currently available for scholarship support?
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PhD Project: Generative Artificial Intelligence Disruption in Talent Acquisition
The project aims to unpack how generative artificial intelligence co-pilots will impact both the assessment of candidates seeking paid work and the evaluation of incumbents’ job performance. ​
Supervisor: Professor Patrick Dunlop
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PhD Project: Motivational Assumptions of Leaders
The project involves a comprehensive business school curriculum assessment, following the development of business school students’ motivational assumptions, developing a valid psychometric assessment of motivational assumptions, and testing different methods to change motivational assumptions.
Supervisor: Professor Marylene Gagne
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PhD Project: Motivational Architecture
This project involves developing and validating organisational design assessments across a variety of organisations and assess their influence on (1) manager’s leadership styles, and (2) employee motivation, performance, and well-being.
Supervisor: Professor Marylene Gagne
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PhD Project: Modelling Human-Automation Team Decision Making
This project addresses a major gap in our understanding of human-automation interaction, with direct implications for safety, productivity, and technology design in domains like aviation, defence and health care. By advancing theory and translating it to applied contexts, this project offers a rare bridge between psychological science and critical workplace challenges.
Supervisor: Dr Luke Strickland
Current PhD candidates
PhD Alumni
​"One of the best aspects of doing a PhD at FOWI is that I can do both of these things at the same time. I receive great mentorship and guidance to develop my own research expertise, but I also get to conduct research that is impactful, multidisciplinary and collaborative... This has made my PhD journey more meaningful, interesting and varied."
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- Dr Belinda Cham, FOWI Research Fellow and PhD Alumni
"The Centre for Transformative Work Design is a place where Work Design is researched, understood and practiced. You can hardly ask for a better environment in which to learn and conduct research."
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- Jia-Xin Tay (Jay)