A PhD internship is a unique opportunity for industry to tap into world-class research talent and collaborate on innovative, real-world solutions that drive growth and impact.

Transform challenges into solutions

Partnering with ACU through an industry PhD internship gives you direct access to a highly skilled researcher who can help tackle complex challenges within your organisation. These short-term placements (typically 3–6 months) focus on solving complex problems that align with both the student’s academic expertise and the partner’s strategic goals. The student works within the company’s environment, contributing to innovation while gaining valuable experience in industry practices, tools, and workflows.

By hosting a PhD intern, you’re not just gaining an extra set of hands—you’re bringing in fresh thinking, cutting-edge academic insight, and the potential to accelerate innovation. Whether it’s contributing to R&D, exploring emerging technologies, or supporting product development, these internships often lead to valuable outcomes like prototypes, patents, or joint publications that boost your visibility and impact.

Get rapid, targeted results

Achieve meaningful outcomes in just 3–6 months through targeted, results-driven research projects tailored to your organisation's strategic goals.

Project IP stays in your hands

Maintain full control over all intellectual property developed during the internship, giving you the freedom to implement, license, or commercialise as you choose.

Access specialised skills and expertise

PhD interns bring advanced research skills, supported by academic mentors, to help solve complex problems and introduce new ideas or technologies.

High value, low administration

A cost-effective way to address R&D challenges with minimal administrative overhead and access to sector-specific subsidies to support costs.

FAQs

ACU has engaged APR.Intern to manage its research internships. APR.Intern is a national research internship service provider that supports industry-funded internships across all sectors and disciplines.

Learn more on the APR.Intern website.

Yes, there is a fee associated with hosting a PhD internship. This fee covers the student stipend and APR.Intern’s project management costs.

For the most up-to-date pricing details, please visit the APR.Intern website.

Have a question? Contact the Graduate Research School

grs.partnerships@acu.edu.au

How to apply

ACU has partnered with APR.Intern to facilitate its research internship program. To express your interest or learn more, please visit the APR.Intern website.

Visit APR.Intern

More ways to engage our graduate researchers

Sponsor an industry PhD scholarship

Invest in a PhD scholarship to unlock breakthrough research, top-tier talent, and innovation tailored to your strategic goals.

Learn more

Become an Associate Supervisor (End-user)

Shape impactful research, gain early access to innovative solutions, and mentor emerging talent aligned with your organisation’s vision.

Learn more

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