Flinders University offers a PhD Scholarship in Archaeology, and AI focused on automated detection of archaeological features using drone imaging and artificial intelligence. The project uses drone photography and machine learning to study large desert areas in Australia. It aims to identify stone artefact scatters and other archaeological features from aerial images collected over wide landscapes.
Funding includes a stipend of $41,555 per year for 3.5 years, paid every two weeks, along with full tuition fee coverage. The project also provides training, research support, and collaboration with industry partners. A 12-month placement with a partner organisation is included to give real work experience and skill development.
Applicants must meet PhD entry requirements at Flinders University, usually an Honours degree or a Master’s degree with research experience. Candidates with skills in GIS, coding, machine learning, archaeology, or drone surveying are preferred. Experience in fieldwork or photogrammetry is also useful.
The program is full-time and requires students to be based on campus as part of a research group. Remote study is not allowed because teamwork and training are part of the program structure.
Applications must include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact details for two academic referees. One referee should be a recent supervisor. All documents must be sent by email to archaeologyittc@flinders.edu.au before 01 June 2026.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Flinders University, Australia
- Department: Archaeology, Faculty of Science
- Research Group: Archaeology ITTC / Industry Collaboration Team
- Supervisor: Not specified
- Location: South Australia, Australia
- Duration: 3.5 years (full-time)
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Application Mode: Email submission (single PDF)
- Required Qualification: Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field
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Research Area
- Archaeology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Drone Imaging & Photogrammetry
- GIS and Remote Sensing
- Cultural Heritage Studies
Eligibility/qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in archaeology, GIS, computer science, or related discipline
- Eligibility for PhD admission at Flinders University
- Strong academic research background
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in machine learning or AI methods
- Skills in coding (e.g., Python or similar)
- Knowledge of drone surveying or photogrammetry
- Background in archaeological fieldwork or spatial analysis
Key Responsibilities
- Develop AI models for archaeological feature detection
- Analyse drone and aerial imagery datasets
- Apply computer vision techniques for landscape interpretation
- Conduct spatial and archaeological data analysis
- Collaborate with academic and industry partners
- Contribute to research publications and reporting
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- Academic opportunities in Australia at top-ranked universities and research institutes.
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Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of:
- Archaeology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Remote Sensing
- Cultural Heritage Management
It provides structured research training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities for academic publication and field engagement.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application as a single PDF file via email. All documents should be prepared carefully before submission to ensure eligibility and completeness of the application package.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter addressing the selection criteria
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Two academic references (including most recent supervisor)
- Proof of research experience
- Statement of suitability for PhD admission
- Supporting portfolio
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 04 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: May 2026
Applications close soon, and early submission is strongly recommended due to competitive selection.
Flinders University is a research-intensive university in Australia with strong expertise in archaeology, digital innovation, and interdisciplinary scientific research. It provides a collaborative academic environment that supports advanced training in heritage science, spatial analysis, and applied archaeological methods.
The Department of Archaeology focuses on cultural heritage, landscape interpretation, and field-based research, integrating both theoretical and practical approaches. The Archaeology ITTC group works closely with academic and industry partners to advance innovative research in large-scale landscape studies and heritage management.
This PhD project is part of that initiative, focusing on AI-driven archaeological detection using drone imagery in arid environments.
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