The Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology) with a Dual Award from Nantes University is a prestigious research doctorate that spans two of engineering's most dynamic and interconnected disciplines — mechanical engineering and industrial engineering and technology. This joint PhD program is conducted in collaboration with Nantes Université in France, meaning candidates are co-supervised by academic experts from both an Australian host institution and the French partner university, ultimately receiving a doctoral degree recognised by both institutions upon successful completion. The program is embedded within the broader Engineering and Related Technologies field (AQF Level 10) and is designed for candidates who wish to push the frontiers of knowledge in areas such as advanced manufacturing, thermodynamics, robotics, mechatronics, industrial systems, materials science, sustainable engineering, human-technology integration, and process optimisation. Research themes commonly include smart manufacturing, automation, structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, renewable energy systems, and operations research. Employers who seek PhD graduates from this field include multinational engineering consultancies, defence contractors, resource and mining companies, aerospace manufacturers, government research agencies (such as CSIRO and DSTG), and universities themselves, as well as growing sectors in clean energy, infrastructure, and advanced technology. The dual-award structure provides candidates with a uniquely international academic credential, access to two research ecosystems, and a globally competitive edge that is highly attractive to both Australian and international employers.

Australian universities typically require applicants to hold a first-class or upper second-class Honours Bachelor's degree (or equivalent four-year degree with a significant research component) in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing engineering, mechatronics, or a closely related engineering discipline. Many programs specify that at least 25% of the undergraduate or honours degree must have comprised a research thesis or research project. Some institutions also accept applicants who hold a relevant Master's by Research or Master's by Coursework with a substantial research component, such as a dissertation, assessed at a high level. For dual-award programs with a French partner such as Nantes Université, applicants are also required to submit a detailed research proposal, identify a willing primary supervisor at the Australian institution, and in most cases secure co-supervision arrangements with an academic at the partner university. Strong academic performance is essential, and candidates are typically expected to have demonstrated a capacity for independent inquiry and prior research output. English language proficiency requirements for international students are typically a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.0), or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge. French language proficiency may be an advantage — though not always mandatory — given the Nantes Université partnership; some programs require at least basic French language competency or willingness to undertake language training. Shortlisted applicants may be required to attend an interview with the proposed supervisory panel and, in some cases, provide evidence of published research, conference presentations, or relevant industry experience to support their application.