Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) – IFM

About the course

Deakin’s Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) – IFM is a research degree delivered through the Institute for Frontier Materials. You will work with expert supervision on an original research project and gain advanced research training over a typical three-year full-time candidature (or part-time equivalent). Research strengths include electromaterials, fibres and textiles, carbon fibres and composites, infrastructure materials, micro/nano materials and advanced alloys in engineering.

Career outcome

Graduates are prepared for research-focused careers developing and translating advanced materials and engineering solutions. Pathways include roles as research scientists/engineers, materials and product development specialists, laboratory and instrumentation experts, R&D consultants, or academic researchers, working across universities, government labs and industry in manufacturing, infrastructure, textiles, composites and advanced materials. This PhD supports leadership roles in engineering research and innovation.

Living Costs in Melbourne**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 15 - 20	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,583 - 2,094	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,207 - 1,596
Transportation (Daily) A$ 7 - 9	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 240 - 318

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)