MARS Program PhD Scholarship

MARS Program PhD Scholarship

The MARS Program PhD Scholarship, administered by the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA), supports future research leaders whose work improves health, safety and wellbeing outcomes in the WA mining industry. Consistent with MRIWA’s role in funding high-impact applied research that delivers economic, environmental and social benefits for WA, the scholarship helps attract and nurture talented researchers whose work addresses important industry challenges and aligns with this focus.

The scholarship supports doctoral research aligned with three key areas: creating workplaces that promote mental health and wellbeing, building cultures of safety and respect and preparing for workplace safety in future mining. Through these priorities, the initiative encourages innovative research that explores psychosocial hazards, strengthens inclusive and respectful workplace practices and develops new approaches to addressing emerging risks associated with changing technologies and ways of working. The scholarship places strong emphasis on generating practical insights and evidence-based solutions that applicants can use to deliver meaningful impact for workers and organisations.

In addition to financial support, the scholarship provides opportunities for professional growth, industry engagement and collaboration. Scholars become part of MRIWA’s broader research network, building connections with industry, government and academic partners while contributing to applied research with real-world impact. By supporting high-quality research and developing future expertise, the scholarship strengthens WA’s capacity to advance workplace health, safety and wellbeing across the mining sector for applicants seeking to make a difference.

Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia

MRIWA is a statutory body established by the State Government to foster and promote minerals research that delivers direct benefit to WA. The organisation supports research that addresses the knowledge and technology needs of the State’s minerals industry, with a focus on building capability and delivering tangible economic, environmental and social outcomes. Guided by a clear research strategy and priority plan, MRIWA works to ensure that minerals research delivers lasting value to WA.

MRIWA invests in high-impact applied minerals research through funding programs, scholarships and collaborative research initiatives. The organisation supports projects undertaken both in Australia and internationally, provided they advance WA’s minerals sector. By encouraging strong industry engagement and co-investment, MRIWA builds connections between industry, research institutions and government, driving innovation and strengthening research networks.

A core focus of MRIWA’s work is translating research into practical outcomes that benefit industry and the wider community. The organisation promotes knowledge transfer through project reporting, public seminars, workshops and the publication of research findings. Its research portfolio spans key areas including mineral exploration, processing, infrastructure, new markets, remediation and mine closure, supporting a more innovative, competitive and sustainable minerals industry for WA.