Undergraduate Studentship Program - Australia Telescope National Facility

Our Undergraduate Studentship Program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to work on real-world problems in a leading R&D organisation. Each scholar undertakes a research project under the supervision of our staff. over the summer.

Participation in the Undergraduate Studentship Program (previously known as the Summer Vacation Student Program) has influenced previous scholarship holders in their choice of further study and future career options. Many have gone on to pursue a PhD in CSIRO or to build a successful research career within CSIRO, a university or industry.

Space and Astronomy has a long and successful history in the space sector from radio astronomy research, managing complex facilities and observing Earth from above to supporting data and manufacturing supply chains.

Our space and astronomy research enables humanity to better understand the Earth and Universe. It contributes to solving the greatest challenges and building future industry. For more information please see our website at Space and Astronomy.

Over the 2025/26 summer Space and Astronomy we are offering 18 projects across a range of disciplines and based at our sites in Marsfield, Kensington, Tidbinbilla, Geraldton, Adelaide and Parkes. For details please see the project list (link to Excel file).

Pre-requisites and eligibility

Applications for these studentships are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents; and international students who have full work rights for the duration of the placement (do not require visa sponsorship).

Appointment to this role may be subject to conditions including provision of a national police check as well as other security/medical/character clearance requirements.

Undergraduate Studentships are open to students who:

Are enrolled in an undergraduate course at an Australian Tertiary institution.
Have completed at least 1 year (full-time equivalent) of an undergraduate course at the commencement of the studentship.
Have a strong academic record (credit average or higher) and/or known capability in the field..
Have an interest in pursuing a research career in science or technology, or a career in a related discipline.
Are able to undertake a full-time placement for 8-12 weeks over the university summer vacation period.