Macquarie University has a vibrant research community. All group leaders in most faculties are prominent scientists in their fields. MQU also boasts a strong research infrastructure and support system for students. As a biomedical researcher, we had access to state of the art instruments, research technologies and reagents. It was an ideal place to undertake my doctoral research.
Course Curriculum :
There is no course curriculum for PhD students. Its 3 years full time research along with annual presentations for assessing the progress of your studies (Thesis commitee). There are excellent opportunities available to students to attend national and internation conferences and/or go to a lab of their choosing for additional research experience through competitive travel awards.
Exams :
IELTS (November 2014): 8.0/9.0 (Listening 7.5, Reading 7.5, Writing 7.0, Speaking 9.0)
Placement :
MQU has many research companies within its campus that offers students several interning opportunities. We also recieve periodic e-mails about other companies seeking interns. One popular program that is run annually is the IMNIS. There are several other programs as well. Support is also available for job placements. MQU also has a state of the art incubator that supports students who wish to venture out as entreprenuers. They provide guidance, infratsructure and equip the students with everything they need for their start-ups. Besides these university centric programs, the faculty is also extremely supportive in helping its students based on their needs.
Internship :
Not applicable. I was focused on my research project during my PhD studies and after I submitted my thesis, I secured a position as a research officer at another research institute.
Fees :
I had a scholarship so I did not have to pay any tuition fee
Scholarship :
International Research Training Program Scholarship (IRTP)
Faculty :
The faculty to student ratio would be around 1:3 on an average for PhD candidates at the Department of Biomedical Science. The faculty here across all streams are extremely well-versed, supportive and the overall work environment is very professional. My PhD supervisors, Prof. Jacqueline Phillips and Dr. Albert Lee have been very inspiring and I have learnt a lot from them. Our HOD, Prof. Helen Rizos is another scientist who has been very supportive during my PhD candidature.
Campus Life :
MQU has an active student community. There is something for everyone. There is a state of art library, gym, excellent student centre and study spaces that are at par with any elite university around the globe. To the best of my knowledge, it has more green space than any other university in Sydney.
Hostel :
I was living in a 2BHK leased appartment with one other PhD student and my weekly rent was 200AUD
