Structure
The graduate program in astronomy and astrophysics at RSAA offers students access to some of the most advanced facilities in the field. The program draws on the expertise of about 50 RSAA astronomers and instrument scientists.
The astronomy and astrophysics PhD program is a full-time program of 3.5 years duration.
The first few months of the program are usually spent on developing a research proposal based on a research project chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor or Associate Director HDR, and on acquiring sufficient background knowledge. This initial phase of the PhD program is intended to extend the student's knowledge of current research topics as well as develop their knowledge of the theory and the techniques used by professional astronomers to conduct research. Students must do a substantial amount of guided reading. Students are also expected to attend colloquia and encouraged to attend a broad range of research group meetings, in consultation with their supervisor or Associate Director HDR.
Depending on their previous history of formal study in astronomy and astrophysics, students may be encouraged to attend courses, in consultation with their supervisor or Associate Director HDR.
RSAA PhD students must adhere to the following timeline.
| Stage of candidature | Requirement for full-time PhD candidature |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| 1-9 months | Preparation for, and commencing, thesis: Thesis proposal and confirmation of Supervisory Panel membership |
| 6-12 months | Submission of Annual Research Progress Report and Annual Research Plan |
| Year 2 | |
| 18-24 months | Completion of Mid Term Review |
| 21-24 months | Submission of 2nd Annual Research Progress Report and Annual Research Plan |
| Year 3 | |
| 33-36 months | Submission of 3rd Annual Research Progress Report and Annual Research Plan |
| Year 4 | |
| 36-42 months | Notification of Intent to Submit thesis, oral presentation, and submission of thesis |
Supervisory panels
A supervisory panel consists of at least three members including a primary supervisor, a chair of panel (who can also be the primary supervisor), and at least two associate supervisors. The primary supervisor usually provides guidance throughout the main research topic(s) and throughout the entire PhD. The chair oversees progress and PhD milestones, as well as research funding. Associate supervisors may provide additional guidance on research topics and general mentorship.
Thesis projects
Thesis projects are offered in all areas of astronomy and astrophysics within the current research interests of academic staff, although some topics may not be on offer on every occasion. A number of staff members have expertise in the design of astronomical instrumentation, and there may be opportunities for students to include instrumental development as a substantial part of their thesis work, although not usually to the complete exclusion of undertaking some astronomical research with the instrumentation concerned.
Participation in RSAA community and national/international research
Students are expected to be at RSAA in person for most of their time in the program, in order to participate in colloquia and life/community (morning tea/coffee, social activities, etc). It is also expected that students participate in national and international conferences relevant to their research topic, as appropriate, and based on consultation with their supervisory panel.