Quantum-AI for Food Security and Student Wellbeing at University of Southern Queensland: Enhancing Hydroponic Resilience and Therapeutic Learning in Food Ladder’s Urban Ecosystems 2025-26

Quantum-AI for Food Security and Student Wellbeing at University of Southern Queensland: Enhancing Hydroponic Resilience and Therapeutic Learning in Food Ladder’s Urban Ecosystems

This project develops quantum-AI tools to optimise urban hydroponics and assess their impact on student well-being. It aims to create quantum-reinforced AI algorithms for efficient resource use and frameworks for integrating green space to improve wellbeing, enhancing urban food resilience, reducing waste, and supporting scalable mental health interventions.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. The applicant must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent resident, meet university PhD admission and English language requirements, and not have previously completed a PhD.
2. The applicant must not be in receipt of another primary scholarship, be able to commence full-time in the year of the offer, and enrol as a full-time PhD student at the agreed project location(s), complying with university external enrolment procedures if required.
3. The applicant’s part-time enrolment is strongly discouraged but may be considered only if approved by the supervisory team and in accordance with university policy, noting that part-time scholarships are taxable.

Selection Criteria: 

1. The applicant must be proficient in Python, machine learning, and preferably quantum machine learning, with a strong interest in sustainability, education, and youth development.
2. The applicant will apply reinforcement learning to optimise resource allocation in hydroponic systems, analyse mixed-methods data (quantitative biometrics and qualitative focus groups), and collaborate with educators, engineers, and industry partners.

Application Process: 

1. Submit digital copies of your CV (including research presentations/publications), Preliminary Research Thesis Topic Proposal (DOTX, 153 KB, completed with Rajib Rana – Rajib.Rana@unisq.edu.au), education qualifications (testamur and transcripts for all degrees), and a Supervisor Support Letter;
2. Applications must be submitted via the UniSQ Scholarship Application Management System by the closing date.

Award: Stipend of AUD 47,020.

Deadline: 31st December 2025.

Note: Maximum period of tenure of an award is 4 years. Periods of study already undertaken towards the degree will be deducted from the period of tenure.