There is worldwide recognition of the need modernize science education to make it consistent with the modern “Einsteinian” conception of space, time, matter, light and gravity. The Einstein-First project, funded by the Australian Research Council, will spend five years developing, testing and assessing an integrated Einsteinian curriculum. Primary and secondary school curricula will be trialed, tested and improved through longitudinal studies in partner schools; and teachers will be trained and assisted in presenting curriculum content.

We are seeking PhD and Masters students who have a background in physics, knowledge of both quantum physics and special and general relativity, and an interest in science communication, outreach and education. Research students will specialize in either Primary or Secondary or Teacher professional development, with projects focused on program delivery and/or program assessment.

In joining this project you will be helping to create a revolutionary new school curriculum that will be consistent with our modern understanding of the universe, and the modern technologies that have revolutionized our lives. For more information, please visit www.einsteinianphysics.com

Research will be taking place in Perth and Canberra and at linked schools. Postgraduate positions can be supported at The University of Western Australia (UWA), Curtin University, and Australian National University. Students will need to separately enrol at one of these institutions according to discussions with team members. The project will be managed by UWA but researchers will be expected to spend some of their time at each of the lead universities.

Australian permanent residents need to satisfy entrance requirements for postgraduate enrolment which ideally will include ability to secure a scholarship at UWA or the other participating universities.

Non-Australian residents will be liable for international student fees of $40k per annum. Exceptional students (top 5% category) with several international publications have the chance of securing an IPRS scholarship. Students outside of the top 10% category have little chance unless their research experience and publications are exceptionally well aligned with the project.

Application instructions

Candidates should submit:

•     a letter of interest explaining why are you interested in this project and how you will contribute using your previous knowledge
•     Detailed CV
•     contact information for two academic referees

Please send all the required documents to Ruby (Ruby.chan(at)uwa.edu.au)

For more information

Contact: E/Prof. David Blair (David.Blair(at)uwa.edu.au)

Ruby Chan (Ruby.chan(at)uwa.edu.au)

Prof. Li Ju (Li.Ju(at)uwa.edu.au)