When you research with us, you join a vibrant and exciting culture of emerging research talent.
Our supportive and welcoming environment will help equip you for success in your research career.
Future higher degree research (HDR) students
Getting started
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students interested in higher degree research (HDR), we provide holistic support across your research journey, from enrolment through to completion. Alongside a vibrant Indigenous-led research community, our support includes:
- tailored academic guidance
- mentorship
- professional development opportunities
- access to scholarships and research funding.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries tailored specifically for Indigenous Australian research students.
- Indigenous Postgraduate Research Award
- Indigenous Australians PhD/Professional Doctorate to Postdoctoral Fellowship (P2P) program
- Geoffery and Cynthia Tailor Bursary
- Interrogating Institutional Responses to Black Deaths in Custody in Queensland (Phd scholarship)
- Building Black Justice Journalism (PhD scholarship)
CATSID for students
The Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Descent (CATSID) may be required to access certain QUT services, programs and support, ensuring eligible students receive appropriate resources. To access Carumba Institute services, students must provide a CATSID form stamped with a common seal from a registered organisation.
About CATSID
Research training and support
Current HDR students and Black academics can engage in a supportive research environment designed to strengthen their scholarly development and advance their research journeys.
Reading and writing groups
Delivery: Weekly (lunchtime)The Carumba Institute hosts fortnightly reading and writing groups for staff, students and QUT associates, creating a supportive space for collaboration and learning. Reading groups focus on discussion of shared texts to build critical thinking, while writing groups provide opportunities to share work and receive constructive feedback, fostering creativity and collective exchange.
Dr Amy McQuire
Black Knowing Seminar Series: Showcasing Indigenous Scholarship
Delivery: MonthlyCarumba Institute hosts the Black Knowing Seminar Series: Showcasing Indigenous Scholarship. Held monthly, the series highlights Carumba's 'Black Knowing' agenda through a focus on Indigenous research and knowledge production. The series showcase the impactful work of QUT’s Indigenous Australian HDR alumni, HDR students, and academics, while also extending the platform to external Indigenous Australian professionals who are committed to community-based research.
Writing retreat
Delivery: AnnuallyThe Carumba Institute Writing Retreat is held annually and forms a key part of our research training and support activities. The retreat offers Indigenous HDR students and Indigenous academic staff a dedicated space for writing, reflection, and peer exchange, while nurturing a culturally safe and intellectually engaging environment. Grounded in Indigenous pedagogies and a strong sense of community, the retreat supports evolving approaches to research, encouraging connection, creativity, and academic growth.
Focused writing sessions
Delivery: WeeklyFocused writing sessions (three hours a week) support Carumba's value of Belonging in Black Knowing, offering a regular space for QUT's Black academics to come together, write with intention, and work free from distraction in a supportive, shared environment.
Dr Raylene Nixon
Oodgeroo Unit
We work closely with our colleagues at the Oodgeroo Unit, the starting point for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who are beginning the undergraduate study journey. Oodgeroo Unit brings together staff with strong cultural knowledge and professional expertise to support students throughout their journey. If you'd like to study a postgraduate coursework degree (like a graduate certificate or graduate diploma), contact the Oodgeroo Unit.
About the Oodgeroo UnitIndigenous Australian alumni
Our Indigenous Australian alumni network connects a growing community of graduates making positive change across the country. Stay engaged through alumni news, events, professional development opportunities, and ongoing connections with QUT.
Learn more
Ready to apply?
Ready to apply?
Support when you need it
The Indigenous Postgraduate Programs Officer (IPPO) oversees and provides support services for current and incoming students. The IPPO also works internally to promote QUT scholarships, bursaries, and other research opportunities to the Carumba Institute student cohort.
If you're considering a research degree with the Carumba Institute, contact carumbainstitute@qut.edu.au to find out how we can help.
If you'd like to study a postgraduate coursework degree (like a graduate certificate or graduate diploma), contact QUT's Oodgeroo Unit.
HDR study spaces
Artwork: 'the point of the spear', courtesy of artist Judy Watson and Milani Gallery, Meanjin/Brisbane.
Contact us
Send any enquiries to carumbaInstitute@qut.edu.au and your request will be distributed to the relevant officer for actioning and response.