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The Doctor of Philosophy through the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) is a specialised, research-intensive doctoral degree that sits at the intersection of natural and physical sciences, social science, and communication studies. Classified under Natural and Physical Sciences, this PhD focuses on investigating the complex, evolving relationship between science and society — exploring how scientific knowledge is communicated, received, contested, and governed in the public sphere. Candidates undertake a full-time research program typically spanning three to four years, culminating in an original thesis of up to 100,000 words that must make a significant and independent contribution to knowledge in the field of science communication. Research topics span a wide range of areas including climate change and energy communication, science misinformation and disinformation, public trust in science, science education, health communication, responsible innovation, environmental decision-making, and the portrayal of science in digital and traditional media.
This degree is designed for graduates with a strong background in science, communications, education, social science, or a combination thereof, who wish to rigorously investigate how science interfaces with the public, policymakers, industry, and media. Students work under the supervision of a panel of expert academics, developing deep specialisations while also gaining broader research training in areas such as research integrity, teaching, policy, and industry engagement. Employers who seek graduates of this PhD include universities and research institutions, government science agencies (such as CSIRO, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources), public broadcasters like the ABC, science museums, environmental NGOs, health communication bodies, and private sector organisations requiring expert science advisors and communicators.
Australia is experiencing unprecedented demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. At a time when misinformation, climate change debates, vaccine hesitancy, and rapid technological change dominate public discourse, the ability to communicate science responsibly, accurately, and accessibly is of critical national importance. A PhD in this field positions graduates as leading experts capable of shaping policy, informing public debate, and driving evidence-based decision-making across government, media, and industry. The field is growing globally, and Australia — as a major contributor to international science research and public science engagement — needs senior researchers and practitioners who can lead the field with academic rigour.
The skills gap in science communication is real and growing. While there are plenty of practising science communicators, there is a significant shortage of researcher-practitioners with the doctoral-level expertise needed to evaluate, improve, and theorise communication strategies at scale. Graduates of this PhD are uniquely positioned to move into academic roles, lead communication research programs at institutions like CSIRO or the ABC, advise government on science policy, or shape how organisations engage with communities on complex scientific issues. The field rewards intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary thinking, and a genuine passion for connecting science with society.
To be admitted to a Doctor of Philosophy in this field, applicants typically require a completed Australian bachelor's degree with at least Second Class Honours – Upper Division (H2A), with First Class Honours strongly preferred. Alternatively, candidates may qualify through a completed research master's degree with a substantial thesis component, or through a combination of relevant qualifications, professional experience, and research publications that can be assessed as equivalent. Applicants must identify a suitable academic supervisor whose research interests align with their proposed project before submitting a formal application, and must prepare a detailed research proposal of up to 2,000 words outlining the project background, research gap, aims, research questions, and proposed methods.
All applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. For international students, this typically means an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or other accepted tests. Domestic applicants who completed their prior studies in English may be exempt. Admission is competitive and subject to supervisory capacity, availability of resources, and approval from the relevant academic delegate — meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the HDR Convenor with an expression of interest and an up-to-date CV prior to submitting a formal application. Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships are available for eligible domestic and international candidates, covering tuition fees and providing a living stipend.
This course may be offered in different study modes depending on the university, campus location, course structure and student type. Students should check the available delivery mode before applying, as not every study option is available at every institution.
On-campus study is the traditional mode of delivery where students attend classes, lectures, tutorials, workshops or seminars at the university campus. This option may suit students who prefer face-to-face learning, access to campus facilities, networking with classmates, practical workshops, group projects and direct engagement with academic staff.
Some universities may offer programs fully online or with online subject options. Online study can be attractive for students who need flexibility due to work, family, location or other commitments. Online study may suit domestic students, working professionals or students who want to study from outside Australia.
Hybrid or blended study usually combines online learning with some on-campus classes, workshops, intensive sessions or practical components. This mode may suit students who want flexibility but still want some face-to-face interaction. The exact structure varies between institutions.
Programs in Australia may have different intake structures depending on the university. The most common intake systems are semester, trimester and block mode.
Many Australian universities follow a two-semester academic calendar. The main intakes are commonly Semester 1 (around February or March) and Semester 2 (around July). Semester-based study usually allows students to complete a set number of subjects over approximately 12 to 14 weeks.
Some universities use a trimester system, which generally provides three study periods a year — around February/March, June/July and October/November. Trimester study may provide more flexibility and may help some students complete their course faster.
Some institutions may offer selected subjects or programs in block mode, where students focus on one subject at a time over a shorter, more intensive teaching period. Block mode may suit students who prefer concentrated learning or working professionals managing study around employment.
Some online or professionally focused programs may offer more frequent start dates or flexible entry points throughout the year. Students should not assume that every course has monthly or multiple intakes — availability depends on the institution, course structure and student type.
Graduates of a PhD from the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science are well positioned to pursue careers across a wide spectrum of sectors. Alumni have gone on to roles in academia, government, industry, and the media, with employers including universities and research institutes, federal and state government science agencies, public broadcasters, environmental and health NGOs, science museums, digital media organisations, and private sector advisory firms. The doctoral qualification signals advanced expertise in both scientific knowledge and communication research, opening doors to senior, leadership, and specialist roles that combine intellectual depth with real-world impact.
Entry Level
Graduate Researcher / Research Assistant
Research Assistant, Graduate Science Communicator, Science Engagement Officer, Junior Policy Analyst, Graduate Communications Officer
Early Career
Research Fellow / Communications Officer
Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Science Communication Officer, Science Journalist, Public Engagement Coordinator, Science Policy Officer
Mid-Level
Senior Researcher / Specialist Adviser
Senior Research Fellow, Science Communication Specialist, Health Communication Adviser, Research Communications Manager, Environmental Communication Consultant
Senior Level
Principal Researcher / Manager
Principal Research Scientist, Science Communication Manager, Senior Policy Adviser, Research Program Manager, Senior Curator, Academic Associate Professor
Leadership
Director / Professor / Head of Department
Professor of Science Communication, Director of Research Engagement, Head of Science Policy, Executive Director (NGO / Research Centre), Chief Science Communicator
Salaries for PhD graduates working in science communication, research, and related advisory roles in Australia vary depending on sector, experience, and seniority.
Melbourne
Melbourne is home to a thriving science, media, and cultural sector, with major employers including Museums Victoria, the ABC, CSIRO, and numerous research-intensive universities. The city's strong arts, technology, and public policy ecosystem makes it an ideal base for science communicators and researchers seeking interdisciplinary engagement and diverse career pathways.
Sydney
Sydney offers unparalleled access to national media headquarters, federal government agencies, and a large concentration of science research institutions and biotechnology firms. The city is a hub for science journalism, health communication, and public engagement organisations, providing PhD graduates with a wide range of career opportunities across media, industry, and policy sectors.
Brisbane
Brisbane's rapidly growing research and innovation precinct, anchored by major universities, CSIRO, and Queensland government science agencies, offers strong opportunities for science communication researchers interested in environmental science, health, and emerging technology. The city's proximity to unique natural environments and its expanding science engagement sector make it an exciting location for field-based and community-focused research.
Perth
Perth's strong resource and environmental science industries, combined with a growing focus on science engagement and community consultation, make it a compelling location for researchers interested in environmental communication, Indigenous knowledge systems, and responsible innovation. Western Australia's government science agencies and research councils also provide career opportunities for PhD graduates in science policy and communications.
Adelaide
Adelaide is emerging as a significant hub for defence science, space research, and health innovation, creating demand for skilled science communicators who can translate complex technical developments for government and public audiences. The city's close-knit research community and proximity to major science institutions offer excellent networking and collaboration opportunities for doctoral researchers.
Canberra
As the home of Australia's major federal government departments, national research agencies including CSIRO and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, and numerous policy think tanks, Canberra is the premier city for science policy and government-focused science communication research. Its unique position at the centre of national decision-making makes it an ideal location for PhD candidates whose research intersects with governance, policy, and public trust in science.
Before choosing a course, students should compare:
International students who want to study in Australia should also consider additional requirements before applying.
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