Be inspired by the best researchers in your field
Deakin is Australia's 6th leading research institution and is home to more than 2000 research experts. We provide a qualified team of at least two supervisors who will guide and support you through every stage of your research degree or PhD. No matter what your passion is, we’re committed to broadening your career opportunities through accredited research training and industry placement.
How to find a research supervisor
Consider your research topic
Before applying for a research degree or PhD, you'll need to think about what problem, theory or idea you want to solve. Explore Deakin's five research strengths and our vibrant research community. This will help you align your research topic with the innovative research being conducted across our faculties and schools, institutes, centres and groups.Find an expert in your field
Browse our directory of experts to find the perfect supervisor for you. You can search by name, faculty, research area or keyword to find an expert in a particular field. You can then click into an expert's profile to learn more about them and scroll down to check if they are available for supervision.
Connect with our leading experts
Once you have considered a topic and found an available supervisor in your field, you'll need to email the expert directly to discuss your research interests and supervision opportunities.
*If you're applying to the Faculty of Business and Law, you will be assigned a relevant supervisor when you submit your application.
How to apply for a research degree
Ready to take the next step? Explore everything you need to apply for a Deakin research degree or PhD, including key dates, entry requirements, supporting documents and tips for finding a research supervisor. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.
My supervisor trusted my skills and motivations despite me not having direct work experience. I love my supervisor’s flexibility when managing my PhD project. This experience helped me understand that your supervisor is there to provide project guidance, but at the end of the day it is your project.
Anne Eichholtzer
PhD in conservation science
Choosing the right supervisor for you
We know doing a research degree or PhD is a big commitment and choosing a supervisor can be a critical first step. To help you find an ideal, dedicated supervisor in your field, here are some things you might want to consider:
- the supervisor’s research expertise and prior supervision experience
- their preferred working relationship and communication style
- the research culture at their workplace
- the outcomes of their previous candidates
What to expect from your supervisor
At Deakin, if you’re accepted as a research candidate, you will be assigned a qualified team of at least two supervisors. They’ll guide you through your degree, offering valuable feedback and serving as a sounding board for your ideas. As your research progresses, you’ll take on more responsibility, eventually becoming the expert in your field while building a collaborative relationship with your supervisors.
How Deakin’s supervisors provide support
Gaining a competitive advantage with an industry placement
During her PhD, Dr Bigelow shares how her supervisor played an important role in securing her industry placement.
Bringing cosmos into the classroom
With the support of world-leading supervisors within his field of astronomy, Dr Saeed Salimpour's work in cosmology is inspiring new generations to be true citizens of the cosmos.
Promoting science education
PhD candidate Amrita describes her supervisors as the ‘perfect mentors’ to help strength her academic profile.
Supporting AI and humans to effectively collaborate
Arun shares how he was mentored and supervised by internationally renowned computer sciences across his PhD journey.
Contact us
Join a community of more than 2000 world-leading research experts dedicated to making a difference. Email Deakin research or call our Admissions and Scholarships team with any questions.
Phone: +61 3 9244 5413