PhD Research Opportunity: Climate Change, Human Migration and Relocation 2026

Climate Change, Human Migration and Relocation
Start Date: 2 February 2026
Location: Parkville Campus, University of Melbourne
Faculty: Faculty of Science
School: School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Project Summary

The relocation of communities from areas of high climate risk is increasingly recognized as an urgent adaptation strategy. However, if managed poorly, such relocations can exacerbate vulnerabilities and infringe upon the rights and livelihoods of affected populations. This PhD opportunity is embedded within a prestigious Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Project (DP250100818) that seeks to understand the enablers and barriers to successful community relocations in the context of climate change.

Focusing on in-depth case studies across three key regions—Australia, Fiji, and Alaska (USA)—the project aims to build robust, context-sensitive knowledge to guide more just, dignified, and sustainable relocation processes. The research is committed to generating insights that improve preparedness, inform policy, and ultimately safeguard the well-being of communities facing displacement due to climate-related risks.

This opportunity is ideal for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a strong interest in climate adaptation, human geography, environmental justice, and community resilience. The candidate will engage with international experts and community-based organizations, contributing to a globally significant area of applied research.

Supervision Team and Collaborators

The PhD candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team of experienced researchers and institutions, including:

• Prof. Celia McMichael and Dr. Merewalesi Yee – The University of Melbourne
• Prof. Karen McNamara – The University of Queensland
• Dr. Annah Piggott-McKellar – Queensland University of Technology
• Dr. Robin Bronen – Alaska Institute for Justice

This collaborative research provides an exceptional opportunity for comparative analysis and international engagement.

Fields of Research

• Human Geography (4406)
• Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation (4101)

Available Degree

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Scholarships and Funding

All applicants will be automatically considered for a range of University of Melbourne scholarships, including:

• Annual stipend: AUD $38,500 (pro rata)
• Additional scholarships may be available via separate application.
  More information on funding can be found on the University of Melbourne Scholarships page.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A background in geography, climate change adaptation, environmental studies, anthropology, or related disciplines.
• A demonstrated interest in climate-induced migration, human rights, development studies, or policy research.
• Strong qualitative research skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience or interest in fieldwork, community engagement, and interdisciplinary research.

Application Details

To express interest or apply for this opportunity, candidates should review the program details on the University of Melbourne’s graduate research site and prepare the necessary documentation, including academic transcripts, a research proposal, and references. Formal applications must be submitted through the university’s official channels.

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding/hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the awarding/hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.