The ATNF, as part of CSIRO Space and Astronomy, has a fundamental role in providing access to world-class astronomy facilities. The Space and Astronomy research unit has an important educational role in the training of the radio astronomy workforce. We therefore encourage students to take up exciting projects related to radio astronomy and join our Postgraduate student program.

The following information involved or interested in joining the program. Details for CSIRO co-supervisors are here.

University Supervisor

CSIRO ATNF staff appreciate the opportunity to work with university students and staff on projects that lead to Honours, Masters or PhD degrees. Traditionally, students spend most of their time at their university with approximately one or two days per week spent at CSIRO. 

• The university will remain legally responsible for the student’s welfare and progress.
• Provide an update on the student’s progress report every six months.
• Provide CSIRO with a copy of any part of the student review relevant to CSIRO.
• For a PhD student based at an overseas university, provide funding via the university for at least one trip to visit their CSIRO co-supervisor in Australia.
• Notify the ATNF Student coordinator of any changes of supervisor or status of student.

Students

Our postgraduate student program aims to brings together postgraduate students with CSIRO researchers who have expertise in the use of Australian radio telescopes. CSIRO researchers can co-supervise a PhD or Masters student who is enrolled at a university. Honours students may also be considered for the program. The student gains the opportunity to interact with students from different universities, the ability to take part in CSIRO colloquia and symposia, and gain access to CSIRO computing facilities.

To apply, download and complete the application form

Students will have:

• Access to CSIRO computing resources (subject to CSIRO IM&T policy).
• Desk space at relevant CSIRO offices when required.
• Access to on-site accommodation, if necessary, for work or study purposes such as visiting your supervisor or observing at our Marsfield location. For further information on eligibility and availability, contact accommodation@atnf.csiro.au
• For Masters students, funding may be available on request, to attend a domestic conference, meeting or workshop.
• For PhD students, access up to $5000 Learning & Development funding to attend domestic or international conferences or meetings. Complete the international travel form to apply for funding.
• Opportunity to participate in the ATNF Postgraduate Student Symposium, Postgrad student committee and other Space & Astronomy committees.
• Encouragement to join the ATNF Postgraduate Student Slack channel.
• An opportunity to visit ATNF Observatories.

Students must:

• Comply with CSIRO’s Code of Conduct
• Complete CSIRO’s onboarding process, which will include the uploading of documentation and a background check.
• A student who has CSIRO network access, must complete mandatory CSIRO online training modules and check CSIRO email regularly.
• Submit progress reports in May each year.
• Include CSIRO Space and Astronomy affiliation on papers that include your CSIRO co-supervisor.
• Provide an electronic copy of your thesis to CSIRO.
• Give a colloquium at either our Marsfield or Kensington office (if possible, or online otherwise) after completing your thesis.

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