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About the University of Melbourne PhD Projects in Gender, Migration, and Violence
The University of Melbourne is calling for expressions of interest from outstanding candidates for fully funded PhD projects investigating the critical intersections of gendered violence, migration systems, and border control policies. These projects form part of a larger research initiative backed by the Australian Research Council (ARC), with the overarching goal of addressing how migration governance may contribute to or exacerbate violence against migrant and refugee women, and how this can be prevented through improved policies and support systems.
As migration, displacement, and border securitization continue to shape global socio-political dynamics, there is an urgent need for focused research that unpacks the gendered consequences of these phenomena. This PhD program offers a rare and transformative opportunity for candidates to engage with this pressing global issue, generate impactful scholarship, and influence future policy and protection mechanisms for vulnerable populations.
Eligible Fields
Prospective candidates should have academic backgrounds in any of the following disciplines:
- Criminology
- Sociology
- Gender Studies
- Law
- Political Science
- Migration Studies
- Public Policy
- Human Rights
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet both the general PhD entry requirements of the University of Melbourne and demonstrate the following:
- A solid academic background in a relevant field (such as criminology, law, sociology, or gender studies).
- Proficiency in research methodologies—qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.
- Strong academic writing skills and the capacity to produce high-quality research outputs.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research team.
- Excellent project and time management skills.
- Fulfillment of the English language requirements for doctoral study at the University of Melbourne.
Selection Criteria
Admission will be based on a competitive evaluation of:
- The relevance, originality, and clarity of the proposed research idea.
- Academic transcripts and the overall quality of past academic performance.
- The applicant’s research potential, as demonstrated through academic writing samples and professional experience.
- Fit with the project’s core research themes and the expertise of the supervisory team.
Research Focus Areas
While applicants may propose their own specific topics, the PhD projects are expected to explore one or more of the following key areas:
- How migration and border control systems enable or reduce gendered violence.
- The lived experiences of migrant and refugee women on temporary visas.
- The gendered impact of detention, deportation, and visa insecurity.
- Policy and legal interventions aimed at preventing violence against migrant and refugee women.
- Comparative studies across different national or regional migration contexts.
- Institutional responses to the vulnerability of women in migration systems.
Supervision Team
- Professor Marie Segrave (Principal Supervisor): A globally recognized authority in migration, gendered violence, and criminal justice reform, Professor Segrave brings decades of research experience and policy engagement to the program.
- Dr Shih Joo Tan (Co-supervisor): An expert in gender studies and sociology, Dr Tan’s work centers on the social structures and inequalities that shape migrant experiences, with a focus on feminist perspectives and intersectionality.
Successful applicants will be automatically considered for a range of highly competitive scholarships at the University of Melbourne. These scholarships typically cover full tuition fees, provide an annual stipend, and may include additional funding for research activities, travel, and conference participation.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to submit the following documents as part of their Expression of Interest (EOI):
- A one-page research proposal outlining your proposed research topic, rationale, and methodology.
- A current academic CV including relevant qualifications, research experience, and contact details for two academic referees.
- Academic transcripts detailing coursework and grades from undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
- A sample of academic writing such as an honours thesis, master’s dissertation, or published journal article.
Benefits of the University of Melbourne PhD Projects in Gender, Migration, and Violence
- Opportunity to work with world-class researchers at a leading global university.
- Contribution to life-changing research that impacts the lives of migrant and refugee women.
- Fully funded tuition and living stipend for the duration of the PhD.
- Access to extensive academic resources, training programs, and international conference support.
- Mentorship and professional development support through the School of Social and Political Sciences.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their EOI via email to Professor Marie Segrave at marie.segrave@unimelb.edu.au no later than 11 July 2025.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further discussion and formal application submission through the university’s PhD application portal.
Program Timeline
- Application Deadline: 11 July 2025
- Anticipated Start Date: 23 February 2026
- Location: University of Melbourne, School of Social and Political Sciences
- Research Areas: Criminology (4402), Gender Studies (4405), Sociology (4410)
Final Thoughts
This PhD initiative offers a unique chance to explore the urgent global issues at the intersection of gender, migration, and violence, while shaping real-world responses to systemic injustices. If you are committed to academic excellence and passionate about making a social impact, this is your opportunity to contribute to meaningful, high-level research that transcends borders.
For inquiries, email Professor Marie Segrave directly at marie.segrave@unimelb.edu.au.
Apply now and be part of a groundbreaking movement toward safer futures for migrant and refugee women.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
World Trade Organization Internship Program 2025
Apply for the $5,000 Pathways Access Scholarship
