Western Australia will invest more than $900,000 to support the next generation of mineral researchers, with five PhD scholarships supporting studies into key challenges and opportunities across the state’s resources sector.
The 2027 Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA) PhD Scholarships will conduct research into areas such as safer, more efficient and lower-emission mining operations, as well as critical minerals, mine tailings and waste, and green steel.
Two of the five scholarships will be dedicated to women undertaking minerals research, with the program intended to support a more diverse pipeline of highly skilled researchers.
WA mines and exploration Minister Daniel Pastorelli said continued investment in research would be important to maintaining the state’s position in the global resources industry.
“Western Australia is a global resources powerhouse, and staying at the forefront means continuing to invest in the people and ideas that will shape the industry’s future,” Pastorelli said.
“These scholarships will give some of our brightest researchers the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges facing our resources sector.
“Backing research and innovation here in WA helps keep our resources sector competitive, creates opportunities for Western Australians and ensures more of the expertise that drives our industry is developed right here at home.”
Each scholarship provides more than $45,000 a year for up to 3.5 years, along with a research and travel allowance of more than $6000 a year.
Recipients will also have access to professional development, training and networking opportunities, as well as engagement with industry, universities and the broader research community through MRIWA’s Education and Workforce Development program.
Applications for the 2027 MRIWA PhD Scholarships are now open and close on November 2, 2026.
