HDR Internship Program

What organisations are eligible to host an internship under the program?

The host company should satisfy the criteria of being a research end-user, which is an individual, a community, or an organisation external to academia that may benefit from the output, outcome or results of the research.

Research end-users could include:

• Businesses
• Government organisations
• Community organisations
• Non-profit organisations
• Independent Research Institutes (not affiliated or a subsidiary of a higher education provider)

What costs are associated with hosting an HDR internship?

Host organisations are encouraged to provide a stipend to support the HDR candidate during the internship. However, funding arrangements are flexible and can be tailored to the scope of the internship and the organisation’s circumstances.

Is the host organisation required to submit a report at the end of the internship?

No. To minimise administrative burden, host organisations are not required to submit a final report.

Why should HDR candidates undertake an internship?

An HDR internship provides valuable opportunities to:

• Apply research in a real-world environment and contribute to industry-relevant projects.
• Enhance professional and research capabilities through practical experience beyond academia.
• Build industry connections and expand professional networks.
• Improve career readiness and employability by gaining exposure to workplace practices and expectations.
• Develop technical and transferable skills, including communication, collaboration, stakeholder engagement and project management.
• Generate real-world impact by helping organisations address practical challenges through research and innovation.

What is the duration of an internship?

The program typically requires a minimum of 60 full-time equivalent days. They can be full-time or part-time and may be conducted on-site, online, or in a hybrid format.

Do HDR candidates receive a candidature extension for the duration of the internship?

Yes. HDR candidates who complete an internship may be eligible to receive an extension to their thesis submission date to cover the duration of the internship.

To be considered for an extension, candidates must:

1. Register their internship via the HDR Candidature Enquiry Form to ensure the internship is recorded on their academic transcript.
2. Submit an Internship Completion Form via the HDR Candidature Enquiry Form at the conclusion of the internship.

The candidature extension will only be applied following completion of the internship and receipt of all required documentation.

Are internships mandatory for HDR candidates?

No. HDR internships are not mandatory, but they are strongly encouraged as they provide valuable opportunities for professional development, industry engagement and career advancement.

Through an internship, HDR candidates can apply their research in a real-world setting, develop industry-relevant skills, expand their professional networks, and enhance their employability while contributing to meaningful organisational challenges.

Is the Internship on-site or remote?

Internships can be flexible, and dependent on the needs of the organisation.

An internship can take place on-site, remotely or hybrid (a combination of on-site and remote working arrangements).

Is the internship full-time or part-time?

The internship can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis.

When should HDR candidates undertake an internship during their candidature?

HDR candidates can undertake an internship at any time during their candidature. However, candidates are encouraged to complete the internship within the first 18 months of their candidature, to allow sufficient time for them to complete their thesis.

Can an HDR candidate undertake an internship with their current employer?

A current employer may be eligible to host an internship, providing all criteria are met. Employment that ended prior to a student commencing their research doctorate cannot be considered an eligible industry internship.

How can HDR candidates identify and secure a suitable internship opportunity?

HDR candidates can identify internship opportunities through a variety of channels, including:

• Directly approaching organisations aligned with their research interests and career goals.
• Leveraging professional networks, including those of their supervisors and research teams.

If there is a specific industry partner you are interested in undertaking an internship with, Graduate Research Services may be able to assist with introductions and engagement.

Contact grs.industry@westernsydney.edu.au to discuss potential opportunities.

What support can HDR candidates expect from their supervisor during an internship?

HDR Supervisors play an important role in supporting candidates before and throughout their internship by:

• Encouraging participation in the internship program and highlighting the professional, research and career development benefits.
• Facilitating opportunities by sharing relevant industry connections and internship opportunities from their professional networks.
• Providing guidance and feedback to help candidates define clear internship objectives and ensure alignment with their research goals.
• Offering ongoing support throughout the internship, including advice, mentoring and assistance in navigating any challenges that may arise.
• Maintaining engagement with the host organisation, where appropriate, to support a positive and productive internship experience.