What you'll investigate

The successful applicant will undertake a PhD or Doctor of Ministry in systematic theology. Any project in this field of study will be considered, with a preference for candidates whose research:

• engages the work of Thomas Aquinas, Bernard Lonergan, or Anthony J. Kelly.
• demonstrates openness to interdisciplinary work that includes art, literature, culture, philosophy.
• integrates theological depth and a cultural or artistic imagination.
• engages the Australian context while speaking to the universal Church. Projects that engage the Australian context and imagination are aimed to stimulate larger reflection as a grounded point of theological reflection about the global Church. International projects are welcome.

Scholarship package

The successful applicant will be awarded a scholarship package consisting of:

* International candidates only

Your research community

Faculty

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy

Research at ACU's Faculty of Theology and Philosophy explores fundamental questions of meaning, ethics, and belief through rigorous scholarship and critical inquiry. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, our researchers engage with contemporary issues in theology, philosophy, and religious studies to foster dialogue, deepen understanding, and contribute to the common good.

Visit the faculty research website

Affiliation

School of Theology

The School of Theology at ACU has internationally recognised research expertise in theology, especially in Catholic systematic theology and contemporary Catholic thought. Theology at ACU is ranked number one in Australia, and top 20 globally in QS World University Rankings in Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies. Led by a National Head of School, and comprising 35 academic staff, our staffing profile is comprehensive and on par with any theological faculty in the world.

Visit the School of Theology website

Industry partner

The Redemptorists (Province of Oceania)

The Redemptorists (Province of Oceania) are a Catholic religious congregation providing support for this scholarship in honour of Professor Anthony (Tony) Kelly CSsR, one of their most distinguished theologians, celebrated as a mentor, scholar and pilgrim of the mystery of God. Through this scholarship, the Redemptorists seek to inspire a new generation of theologians who, like Professor Anthony (Tony) Kelly, engage faith and culture in deep dialogue and enliven theology with imagination and grace. The Redemptorists have chosen ACU for this transformational project because of ACU's mission to foster theological research that is rigorous, creative and responsive to contemporary society.

Visit the Redemptorists website

How to apply

Applications close: Monday 13 July 2026, 11:59 pm AEST

Step 1: Assess your eligibility

Eligibility

Before you apply, confirm you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• This opportunity is open to domestic and international applicants.
• The eligibility criteria for the PhD program at ACU can be found in the Higher Degree Research Policy.
• The eligibility criteria for research scholarships can be found in the ACU Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.

Requirements

In addition to the eligibility criteria, the successful applicant should have:

• evidence of academic merit
• demonstrated commitment to teaching, mentoring or formation, particularly for a future career in lecturing in theology or a related church ministry or role.

Conditions

By applying, you acknowledge and accept the following conditions:

• The scholarship package is subject to satisfactory progress and full-time study mode.
• The scholarship conditions align with the ACU Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.
• The successful applicant will be required to assign their intellectual property (IP) to ACU as a condition of enrolment.

Step 2: Express your interest

Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Assoc. Prof. Joel Hodge prior to applying for the PhD program and scholarship, to express their interest and discuss the project in detail.

Email: joel.hodge@acu.edu.au

Step 3: Submit your application

To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must submit all documentation required for an application to the PhD program at ACU, as detailed in the How to Apply instructions, plus:

• A CV outlining relevant academic and practical experience; and
• A cover letter (approximately 500 words) detailing demonstrated interest and/or experience in the program of research described;
• Two referee reports which addresses how the applicant is a suitable and exemplary candidate for the Scholarship, including with respect to the above selection criteria.

When completing the PhD application form, please indicate that you are also applying for a stipend scholarship and include the name of this project "The Anthony J. Kelly CSsR PhD Scholarship".