If you are a high achieving student with an analytical mind and an intrinsic desire for problem solving, a research degree (PhD) could be the foundation of your exciting career in research. A research PhD is the recognised qualification for a career in academia as well as many other diverse and rewarding opportunities in the public and private sectors, domestically and internationally. Broaden your career options Research is a growth industry, and gaining a research higher degree will give you a significant advantage in the job market. The unemployment rate for people of working age in 2006 with a PhD was only 2.2% (Edwards, 2010). The same article suggests that the "total Australian workforce is expected to grow by 16.6 per cent between 2007 and 2020, but the doctorate degree level component of this workforce has a projected 47.9 per cent growth over this time". A report into research training commissioned by the Australian Government confirmed that the academic population is aging and that the number of young academics coming through will be insufficient to meet the future needs of research in Australia (Bradley, Noonan, Nugent and Scales, 2008). The option of a career in academia is likely always to remain open for you if you complete a PhD, both immediately after graduation and as you continue to build knowledge and gain experience in your discipline. Contribute to critical knowledge Research involves defining and solving problems and constantly striving for improvement in your chosen discipline. We regularly receive feedback from graduates that doing a PhD has given them a real sense of achievement and the feeling of having contributed to something positive for the future. Our research strengths Research capabilities within the School: Biological sciences Chemistry Earth sciences Environmental science and management Exercise and sports science Food and human nutrition Geography and environmental studies Marine science Sustainable resource management