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Australia – PhD in Pacific History at Flinders University

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Australia – PhD in Pacific History at Flinders University
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Streaky bay, South australia, Australia
Classification symbol Research and Science
All other/unspecified
Job posted on August 17, 2025
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Job Description:
University: Flinders University

Country: Australia

Deadline: 2025-10-01

Fields: History, Political Science, Anthropology, International Relations, Cultural Studies

Are you passionate about exploring the complex dynamics of imperial competition and cooperation in the Pacific, and eager to contribute new insights to the historical narratives that shape our understanding of this vital region? If you are driven by a desire to investigate the resilience, adaptation, and resistance of Pacific nations and communities, the PhD scholarship opportunity at Flinders University may be the ideal next step in your academic journey.

About The University Or Research Institute

Flinders University, located in Adelaide, South Australia, is renowned for its commitment to innovative research and academic excellence. Established in 1966, Flinders has grown to become a leading Australian university, consistently ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide. The university boasts a vibrant, multicultural campus and a strong tradition of interdisciplinary research, particularly within the humanities and social sciences. Its strategic location in Adelaide offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and access to a thriving academic community. Flinders University’s partnerships with other prestigious institutions, such as the Australian National University, the Australian Catholic University, and the College of the Marshall Islands, further enhance its research capabilities and global reach.

Australia itself is a premier destination for international students, offering world-class research infrastructure, a welcoming multicultural environment, and a safe, stable society. With its robust support for higher education and research, Australia provides an ideal setting for doctoral candidates to pursue advanced studies and build international networks.

Research Topic and Significance

The PhD scholarship is offered as part of the ARC Discovery Project titled “Pacific Powers: Imperial Competition and Cooperation in Micronesia.” This project seeks to deepen our understanding of the history of great power projection in the Pacific and the varied responses of local nations and communities. The research explores themes of imperialism, resilience, adaptation, and resistance, focusing on the intricate interplay between external powers and indigenous societies in Micronesia and the broader Pacific region.

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The significance of this research lies in its timely relevance. As geopolitical interest in the Pacific intensifies in the 21st century, understanding the historical foundations of current dynamics is essential for policymakers, academics, and local communities alike. By examining the legacies of empire, maritime interactions, cultural exchanges, military presence, religious movements, health, politics, anthropology, and trade, this project aims to contribute original scholarship that informs contemporary debates and supports the empowerment of Pacific communities.

Project Details

The successful PhD candidate will be based at Flinders University under the principal supervision of Professor Matthew Fitzpatrick and Dr. Prudence Flowers. The project is a collaborative partnership involving Flinders University, the Australian National University, the Australian Catholic University, and the College of the Marshall Islands. The supervision team at Flinders brings deep expertise in German, British, and US imperial histories in the Pacific, while also welcoming research exploring other case studies within the region during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Project proposals may focus on a range of themes, including but not limited to:

– History of empire

– Maritime history

– Cultural history

– Social history

– Military history

– History of religion

– Health

– Politics

– Anthropology

– Trade

The candidate will have the opportunity to engage with a dynamic team of researchers and benefit from the collaborative environment fostered by the partner institutions.

Candidate Profile

This PhD Scholarship Is Designed For Outstanding Candidates Who Have a Strong Academic Background And a Passion For Historical Research In The Pacific Region. Suitable Applicants Will Possess

– A completed Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A, or an equivalent qualification with a research component of at least six months’ full-time study achieving Distinction (75%), or equivalent research experience.

– Eligibility to apply for a student visa in Australia (for international applicants).

– Availability to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in Semester 1, 2026.

– Strong interest in the history of great power projection, resilience, adaptation, and resistance in the Pacific.

– Candidates from the Pacific region are especially encouraged to apply.

– Candidates with the ability to work with source materials in languages other than English are particularly welcome.

Applicants with backgrounds in history, political science, international relations, anthropology, cultural studies, and related disciplines will find this opportunity especially relevant. An inquisitive mindset, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to contributing original research to the field are essential.

Application Process

To Be Eligible For The Scholarship a Student Must

– Be an Australian citizen; or New Zealand citizen; or have been granted permanent resident status; OR be an international citizen eligible to apply for a student visa in Australia; and

– Meet PhD admission requirements including: have an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A or equivalent qualification, including a research component of at least 6 months’ full-time study achieving Distinction (75%) OR including evidence of equivalent research experience; and

– Be available to commence as a full-time PhD student at Flinders University in semester 1, 2026;

– Candidates from the Pacific region are especially encouraged to apply

– Candidates able to work with source materials in languages other than English are especially encouraged to apply

For more information and to apply, please visit the official scholarship page:

https://www.flinders.edu.au/scholarships/phd-scholarship–pacific-powers

Conclusion

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a world-class research team and contribute to a project of significant academic and societal value. If you are motivated to advance our understanding of Pacific history and its contemporary implications, we encourage you to apply for this prestigious PhD scholarship at Flinders University. Stay updated on similar opportunities by following our platform and exploring further positions in your area of interest.

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