Good lives. Exceptional care. Strong communities.

We pursue our vision for Transformative Research through three cross-disciplinary Research Themes that build on our research strengths in philosophy and theology, education, Indigenous studies and the biomedical, clinical and health sciences.

Our research themes align with our mission and objects are distinctive in the Australian context. The themes inform one another, bringing together researchers across disciplines, communities, industry and society - both nationally and globally.

Meet our researchers

Professor Anne Poelina, Co-Chair of Indigenous Studies at the Nulungu Research Institute

Research at Notre Dame

Notre Dame’s three national research institutes are located across our Sydney, Broome, and Fremantle campuses. We also host research centres, networks, and collaborative projects with partners across industry and community in areas such as palliative care, chronic pain research, homeless healthcare, religion and society, and catholic education.

Our approach

At Notre Dame, we are committed to research that prioritises community needs, enriches human lives, and supports human health, particularly for vulnerable groups. Our research community is built upon principles of integrity and respect for the dignity of every human person, which shape how we undertake our research and how we work with our partners.

Our University Research Plan 2023-26 lays out our ambitious agenda for research at Notre Dame over the next four years. We’re joining with partners in Australia and worldwide who share our vision for Transformative Research that benefits all.

Transformative research

to improve human lives and impact society for the common good

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Researchers with integrity

and commitment to ethical conduct that sustains human dignity.

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Partnering for impact

with community, professions, and industry in Australia and internationally.

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Postgraduate research

Notre Dame fosters a strong research culture and offers Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) across its Fremantle, Broome, and Sydney campuses. Postgraduate research students receive guidance and support from expert academics, and the university encourages multi-disciplinary projects and offers courses and workshops for skill development.

Master's

Pursue a Master's degree in your field of study to gain advanced knowledge and hone your research skills.

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Doctorate

Become a subject matter expert and make significant contributions to your field with a doctorate degree.

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How to apply

Follow the steps to assist you in understanding the application process for HDR.

See application process
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Postgraduate scholarships

Notre Dame offers a wide range of scholarships for postgraduate students.

Find a scholarship

Expression of interest

Confirm program eligibility and academic supervision match for your research project.

Submit form
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Postgraduate guides

Learn more about navigating your next career move with our range of postgraduate qualifications.

View guides
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Contact us

Interested in research at The University of Notre Dame Australia? Enquire now, or contact us at the details below.

Research Office

Phone: +61 (2) 8204 4426

Research Grants

Phone: (+61) 02 8204 4660

Research Ethics

HDR Team

Phone: Phone: 08 9433 0664

Partner with us

Create innovative solutions to challenges your organisation faces through a research partnership.

Scholarships

There is a range of scholarships available for eligible HDR students.

Expression of interest

Interested in applying to undertake an HDR? Complete an Expression of Interest.

Connect with research at Notre Dame