The University of Queensland has plenty of Indian PhD scholars. This is why

In order to address some of the most pressing global issues of our times, such as the need for resilient environments, technology for tomorrow and the art of transforming societies, the University of Queensland has constantly been working on improving ties with India, especially in the field of research. Jessica Gallagher, Director, Global Engagement and Entrepreneurship tells us more about their recent partnership with Indian Institute of Technology - Delhi (IITD) and the scope for Indian students at UQ. Excerpts...

What are the key challenges that Indian students in Australia face and how does UQ help solve that?

Being away from friends and family, often for the first time, can make it difficult to develop social and professional networks. This is why UQ offers support for all international students, so they can overcome the unique challenges of studying in a foreign country. Support includes a range of resources to help students plan for their arrival and for living in Australia, so they can enjoy the best possible study experience. For example, UQ provides international students with information on accommodation options, a free airport pick-up service for new international students, and inductions/welcome events and campus tours on arrival. Academic and English support is also offered to help students adapt to university life in Australia through diverse learning workshops and courses.

Dr Jessica Gallagher, Director, Global Engagement and Entrepreneurship, University of Queensland

Tell us about the partnership with IITD and what it will address. 
Through the UQ-IITD joint Academy of Research (UQIDAR), both institutions are attracting the best talent – including students, academics, researchers and scientists to work on goal-directed, cross-disciplinary grand challenges of interest to Australia, India and global communities. With generous scholarship opportunities, the UQIDAR enables PhD students from India and Australia to take advantage of world-class facilities and resources, and to gain exposure to culturally diverse research networks. Students will benefit from access to global expertise through dual supervision by UQ and IITD researchers. Upon successful completion of the program, students are offered a jointly awarded PhD degree from both UQ and IITD. The Academy is expected to graduate more than 360 students within the next 10 years.

What are the most common courses that Indian students take up at UQ and what are the subsequent jobs they land with?

At UQ, India is predominantly a postgraduate market. In 2019, the most popular program is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), followed by the Master of Business (MBA), Bachelor of Engineering, Masters of Engineering, and the Master of Engineering Science (Management). Uptake in UQ’s Master of Data Science, has also been significant in the past two years. These graduates are expertly prepared to work in Australia or overseas across a large number of industry sectors, government agencies, and technology companies, as well as in consulting and market-research firms.

What is UQ's focus going to be for the next few years with regards to ties with India? 

UQ has forged a strong bilateral relationship with India and currently maintains partnerships with 15 research and higher education institutes, spanning articulation, research collaboration and short-term mobility programs. To further support collaboration with India, UQ has a long-term, integrated approach to partnerships that align with Indian government, academic and industry groups, and that support PhD and joint research with key Indian partners.