20 December 2022

AGRS e-News

Dean's Message

Given the uncertainty of recent years, I am sure that many of us went into 2022 with the hope of a more settled year. Yet, 2022 again offered a range of unexpected twists and turns, meaning that the resilience and support structures we have built in recent times proved critical once more. I would thus like to thank everyone who has made a positive difference to the experience of our HDR community this year:

The supervisors, postgraduate coordinators, and Associate Deans of Graduate Studies, who continue to

go above and beyond; all our professional and academic staff and our industry mentors whose continued efforts ensure that you can follow your dreams in a safe and supported manner; and, of course, yourselves, for encouraging and looking after each other. Thank you all for playing your critical role in shaping a positive community and ensuring all of you feel at home here at the University.

Importantly, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Adelaide Graduate Research School staff, under the inspiring leadership of Dr Doreen Krumbiegel. Having now had the opportunity to work with this wonderful team for about a year, I couldn’t wish for a more dedicated, collegiate, hard-working and caring team, with our HDRs always top of mind.

Looking back at 2022, much has happened. To name a few:

As of semester 2 this year, our (Commonwealth and University of Adelaide funded) scholarships have been extended to a 3.5 year default funding time
As of January 2023, the scholarship value for these scholarships will increase from the RTP base rate to $32,500 per annum
Oral examinations have been confirmed as an essential part of our future examinations process
We have significantly expanded our internship and broader industry engagement opportunities to broaden learning and career pathways

Looking forward, I would like to take this opportunity to again thank all of you who have provided input into the development of our HDR Strategy. Your thoughtful contributions and innovative ideas have made a big difference to the way in which we will shape the Adelaide HDR experience going forward; with a particular focus on diverse learning and career opportunities, experience and support systems, as well as strong community building. If you have other ideas or thoughts, please get in contact, or utilise my consultation hour Wednesday mornings. I look forward to continuing the discussion and to implementing the important work that is planned.

On a personal reflection, I would like to thank you all for your welcome to me formally stepping into the Dean of Graduate Studies role this year. I am privileged to be able to work with, and support, inspiring individuals such as yourselves; and I can’t wait to see the difference that I know each and every one of you will make, independent of the path you may choose during and beyond your degree with us.

In the meantime, on behalf of the Adelaide Graduate Research School team, I wish you all a safe and happy break over the holiday period. May your New Year be full of health and happiness, of a rewarding and inspiring research journey, and of many opportunities for you to celebrate your learning and achievements with your fellow researchers, the broader university community, and your loved ones.

Professor Carolin Plewa

Pro Vice Chancellor (Researcher Education and Development) and Dean of Graduate Studies

Tip of the Month

Did you know that you can receive a scholarship for 60 business days if you undertake an eligible research internship? More information https://www.adelaide.edu.au/graduate-research/industry-opportunities/research-internships

PhD Research Internships Webinar

A Research Internships Webinar for PhD Students will be held on Thursday 19 January 2023 from 11 am – 12 noon (Adelaide Time).

The HDR Industry Team, supported by Carolin Plewa, Pro Vice Chancellor (Researcher Education and Development) and Dean of Graduate Studies and Doreen Krumbiegel, Director of Adelaide Graduate Research School will discuss the benefits of industry engagement and short-term research internship opportunities. A few PhD students will also be talking about their internship journey and experience.

The session will be followed by a Q&A session at the end.

For more information please contact the HDR Industry Team at hdr_internships@adelaide.edu.au.

N.B: There are various research internship opportunities currently advertised and coming up for PhD students within the first 18 months (36 months, if part-time) of their candidature across various disciplines. Therefore, students meeting the eligibility criteria are strongly encouraged to attend the webinar.

Postgraduate Scholarship Opportunities

The Adelaide Graduate Research School maintains a searchable database of available scholarship opportunities (both full scholarships and supplementary scholarships), funded by both the University of Adelaide and external funding bodies. While the majority of available scholarships are awarded as part of the standard admission and scholarship rounds for domestic and international students, some are awarded at different times throughout the year, and may have a separate application process.

Visit the Postgraduate Scholarships website regularly for up to date information on current scholarship opportunities.

Research study on the mental health of PhD students in Australia

Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems of the University of Sunshine Coast is undertaking a nationwide study to assess the mental health of PhD students in Australia and to understand how the mental health of these students compares with the wider Australian working population. Students across Australia are invited to complete an anonymous online survey, which would take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

For more detailed information and to access the survey, please click here, or access the link: https://uniofsunshinecoast.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bKtlASfnaKhXnGS.

Research Team Contact Details
Chief Investigator
• Dr Jolene Cox (E: jcox@usc.edu.au; Ph: +61 (0)7 5456 3579)

University Library

Migration of online resources... what you need to know

Early next year, the University Library will be migrating its online resources to a more modern and secure platform, OpenAthens. This migration shouldn’t affect users unless you wish to keep the items saved on your bookshelf, notes, and bookmarks. Further information on how to do that: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/library/news/list/2022/12/01/migration-from-ebook-central-to-openathens-what-you-need-to-know

Counseling Support pilot project - AHMS

Do you study at Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences building and have limited time to get to appointments? From Tuesday 29 November, you will be able to book an appointment at AHMS. Appointments will be available every Tuesday (1pm, 2pm and 3pm spots) and remotely (via Teams or Zoom) at 5.30 and 6.30pm. Face to face appointments will take place on level 4 of the Clinical Research Facility. Full details will be shared once you have registered for a session.

To register, go to the Counselling Service website Access Counselling | Counselling Support | University of Adelaide. For other wellbeing resources and information, check out the Wellbeing Hub.

Adelaide Graduate Research School Website Links

Respect. Now. Always.

The University seeks to promote an inclusive, respectful and fair environment for all people whilst engaged in University-related activities. A range of services are available to assist students who have safety concerns or have experienced bullying, sexual harassment or assault. For further information, help, or to report an incident, please visit the Safer Campus Community website.

As a student of the University, you can help to keep your campus safe by looking out for your own safety, and the safety of others and by conducting yourself in a manner consistent with the Student Charter. Remember that unacceptable behaviours such as Harassment, Discrimination, Bullying and Victimisation are not tolerated at the University.

Free, independent and confidential Counselling Service

Did you know that as a Postgraduate Student you are entitled to access counselling services provided to students at The University of Adelaide. To find out more information visit the Counselling Centre website.

Free and confidential Disability Service

As a Postgraduate Student you are also eligible for assistance from the Disability Service if you have a disability or ongoing medical condition. Information about the nature of your disability is not disclosed – information obtained from you about the functional impact of the disability is shared with academic staff solely for the purpose of assisting you with your studies. Details relating to the Disability Service and the on line registration process can be found on the Disability website.

Useful resources for staff can be found at the staff section of the Disability website.