The University of Newcastle, through its Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE) program, is offering PhD and Masters scholarships for First Nations students to explore the impacts and opportunities of the clean energy transition. The scholarships provide $52,232 per year and are designed to support Indigenous-led research across multiple disciplines, ensuring First Nations perspectives are included in shaping Australia’s renewable energy future.
Research Areas and Opportunities
The program welcomes applicants from a broad range of fields beyond science and engineering, including law, economics, anthropology, sociology, and business. Students can develop their own research topics or work with a supervisor or industry partner to co-design a project that aligns with both their academic interests and community priorities.
Potential research topics include:
- Long-Term Benefits of Renewable Energy Zones (REZs): Investigating how First Nations communities can continue to benefit from REZ projects after construction is complete.
- Challenges in Rooftop Solar for First Nations Housing: Examining barriers to installing and maintaining rooftop solar in First Nations communities, including funding, approvals, and long-term upkeep.
- Training and Employment in Clean Energy: Identifying obstacles and opportunities for regional and remote First Nations communities to access training and jobs in the renewable energy sector.
- Nature-Positive Solutions: Exploring how renewable energy projects can be co-located with environmental initiatives that involve traditional land stewardship.
- Community Ownership of Clean Energy Projects: Developing a roadmap for First Nations communities to own and manage renewable energy projects on Country, considering best-practice models of engagement, advocacy, and governance.
Strengthening First Nations Leadership in Clean Energy
These scholarships aim to build leadership pathways for First Nations researchers while strengthening the broader Indigenous research community. The program is aligned with Australia’s national research goals and the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy, ensuring that emissions reduction projects deliver meaningful benefits to First Nations communities.
Students undertaking this research will contribute to a better understanding of how clean energy initiatives can be developed in ways that respect cultural knowledge and priorities. By supporting Indigenous-led research, the program aims to create long-term benefits for First Nations people, both in policy development and on-the-ground projects.
How to Apply
Applications for the first round close on 30 June 2025. Interested applicants can watch an online information session here or contact the TRaCE team at trace@newcastle.edu.au for more details.
