Honours frequently asked questions
- What student research projects are available?
- Will I need a scholarship?
- When do applications close?
- What are the selection criteria?
- How many places are available?
- If I'm accepted, what resources are available to me?
- How many hours a week are involved?
- Do I have to attend institute seminars?
- When would I start?
- Is there a student association?
- Where can I find more information?
1. What student research projects are available? Back to top
Although the institute provides a list of potential student research projects online, we are also open to hearing from students who have an interesting question they want to pursue, provided the question fits with the institute’s existing research programs. Find out how to apply for an Honours place at the institute.
2. Will I need a scholarship? Back to top
No. Each student accepted into the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute’s Honours program is awarded an Alan W Harris Honours Scholarship. The scholarship provides each student an allowance of $5,000 for the year, paid on a fortnightly basis while undertaking the course.
3.When do applications close? Back to top
Closing dates are normally in November. The application process has two phases: an application to the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and an application to the University of Melbourne.
4. What are the selection criteria? Back to top
A high academic standard, demonstrated potential for successful completion of an honours project and demonstrated interpersonal skills. Candidates need to satisfy the honours entry requirements for the University of Melbourne Department of Medical Biology (WEHI) in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences.
5. How many places are available? Back to top
We do not have a set number of Honours places available each year. The number of Honours places available is only limited by applicants’ interest in the projects the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute has available and a mutual agreement between the prospective institute supervisor(s) and the student. Applicants should look at the student research projects listed online (August-November each year) and/or contact the laboratory head they are interested in working with to see if an Honours position is available.
6. If I’m accepted, what resources are available to me? Back to top
Administrative
Honours students will have access to either an individual or shared computer with the full range of relevant software. We also provide IT support, free access to scientific journals, free assistance in the design and printing of scientific posters, photocopying, printing, telephones, dial-in internet access, interlibrary loans and funding for conference travel (awarded on merit). Morning and afternoon tea is also provided daily.
Scientific
Laboratory space, equipment and consumables required for your Honours project. Experienced FACS (Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting) staff and services, pre-prepared media for experimental use, washed and autoclaved equipment, mouse facility with qualified animal technicians, histology services, monoclonal antibody production and imaging facility.
7. How many hours a week are involved? Back to top
Scientific research is not a 9-5 job. Depending on the experiments you are running you may find yourself working evenings and weekends as well as during the day. Discuss with your prospective supervisor their expectations regarding time spent in the lab.
8. Do I have to attend institute seminars? Back to top
Yes. Each week two institute-wide seminars are held. One as part of the Postgraduate Lecture Series (designed to give students an understanding of a topic they may not have been exposed to in their coursework, or within their projects) and the other as part of the Wednesday Seminar Series (where scientists, often from the institute, talk about current developments in their research). Attendance at both seminars is compulsory. Each research division holds a weekly seminar – attendance at your divisional seminar is also compulsory.
9. When would I start? Back to top
The Honours program at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute begins in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
10. Is there a student association? Back to top
Yes. WESA (Walter and Eliza Hall Student Association) is an association that includes Honours and PhD students. The WESA committee is elected by the students and provides advice on any questions or problems you might be facing. It also arranges guest speakers, regular sporting activities, movie nights, pub nights and organises the annual student retreat. The retreat is fully funded by the institute.
11. Where can I find out more information? Back to top
The institute holds an Open Day each year, in September, where staff and students of the institute are available to discuss potential projects and institute life. Tours are also be held throughout the afternoon. Find out about events at the Walter and Eliza Hall insitute, including Open Day.