PhD - Doctor of Philosophy (School of Engineering and Advanced Technology)

Massey’s Doctor of Philosophy is a prestigious research qualification essential for a rewarding academic career in any research institution or university. It’s the highest supervised degree Massey University offers.

To do a PhD you need to have a passion for your subject, and pursue it to the limit.

The degree is awarded for a thesis that demonstrates the candidate's ability to carry out independent and original research that provides a significant contribution to the knowledge and understanding of a field of study.

Candidates can complete a thesis with publications or a monograph, depending on the supervisor’s advice. The programme is expected to be completed within three to four years full-time or six years part-time.

Opportunities for research and career development

PhD candidates can access the UK Vitae platform which is a world leader in supporting the professional development of researchers. Massey is the only New Zealand university that subscribes to Vitae.

We support and provide training for all candidates to participate in the annual university 3MT (Three-Minute Thesis) competition and offer lucrative prize money for the winners.

Workshops to hone your skills

Massey offers a wide range of workshops to PhD candidates.

• Graduate Research School - develop your research skills from project management to writing a research funding application.
• The Centre for Teaching and Learning - improve your study skills with writing support workshops.
• Massey Library - develop as a researcher, including learning strategies for getting published and data management.

Accessible lecturers and supervisors

Massey University academic staff provide quality and caring supervision and are easily accessible. We limit our PhD enrolments to high-achieving candidates, so you’ll receive close attention and regular interaction with staff. You’ll have at least two supervisors, allowing you to benefit from a range of expertise.

Our researchers work collaboratively, blending disciplines to solve problems that have global impact. We leverage solutions from many areas of specialisation. From micro-electronics to detect animal pain to using artificial intelligence in smart homes for our aging population. We are future-focused, committed to helping society, communities and industry.

Research expertise in Engineering

• Chemical, bioprocess and environmental engineering
• Electronics, information and communication systems
• Food processing and engineering
• Industrial management and innovation
• Mechatronics, robotics and automation

At Massey key areas of research in computer science and information technology include programming languages and the human-computer interaction including technology-enhanced environments and informatics.

Research expertise in Computer science and information technology

• Artificial intelligence
• Computational systems and software
• Data science and analytics

The built environment and construction industry is an important sector to New Zealand, contributing tens of billions of dollars a year to the economy.

Massey is leading the way in research and development in this area, helping to create better efficiencies and resilience, as well as healthy and sustainable buildings.

Research expertise in Construction and built environment

• Green buildings
• Health and safety of buildings
• Healthy schools
• Lighting research
• Productivity of construction contracts