PhD Degree in machine vision technologies for Controlled Environment Agriculture at University of Southern Queensland 2025-26

PhD Degree in machine vision technologies for Controlled Environment Agriculture at University of Southern Queensland

This PhD scholarship, funded by the iLAuNCH Trailblazer, focuses on developing machine vision algorithms for automated plant care in Controlled Environment Agriculture, such as vertical farming. The project combines mechatronic, electronic, robotic, and software engineering to monitor plant growth, health, and yield, supporting adaptive closed-loop control of water and nutrients.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. The applicant must have completed an Honours degree with First Class or Second Class (Division A) Honours, or an equivalent qualification, or a Master’s degree with a significant research component.
2. The applicant must have applied to, or be currently enrolled in, the PhD program at UniSQ, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and be eligible to commence the PhD program at UniSQ Toowoomba in early 2025.
3. The applicant must not be receiving equivalent support that provides a benefit greater than 75% of the student’s stipend rate.

Selection Criteria:

1. The applicant must have studied in robotics-related fields such as mechatronic engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, or computer science, and have experience in programming languages (e.g., Python) as well as machine vision and signal processing algorithms.
2. The applicant should ideally have practical experience in electronic instrumentation and experimental trials, and the ability to establish rapport with multidisciplinary industry representatives, for example in Controlled Environment Agriculture.

Application Criteria: The applicant must have digital copies of the following to apply: Curriculum vitae, including any research presentations and/or publications and Education qualifications (testamur and academic transcripts) for all undergraduate and postgraduate awards.

Award: Stipend of AUD 37,000.

Deadline: 31st July 2025.
 
 Note: Maximum period of tenure of an award is 3 years full-time.