The University of Auckland is inviting applications for the Nature Positive PhD Scholarships 2027, a fully funded doctoral programme designed to develop the next generation of researchers focused on sustainability, biodiversity, regenerative economies and systems-level transformation. Hosted within the Faculty of Business and Economics, the scholarship programme will support up to 10 outstanding PhD candidates commencing their studies in 2027.
The scholarships are part of the University’s innovative Nature Positive Hub, which brings together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, communities and practitioners to explore solutions that can halt and reverse environmental degradation while promoting long-term social and economic wellbeing.
About the Nature Positive PhD Cohort
The Nature Positive PhD Cohort is a flagship initiative aimed at advancing research that examines how organisations, markets, institutions and governments can contribute to biodiversity recovery and ecological regeneration.
Rather than focusing solely on reducing environmental harm, the programme encourages research into transformative approaches that actively restore natural systems and support sustainable economic development.
The cohort adopts an interdisciplinary approach and welcomes collaboration across fields such as:
- Business and Management
- Economics
- Finance
- Commercial Law
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Information Systems
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- International Business
- Property
- Environmental Science
- Engineering
- Data Science
- Public Policy
Research projects will explore themes such as ecological transition, stewardship, institutional design, economic enablement and social legitimacy, all of which contribute to building a regenerative and nature-positive future.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful candidates will receive a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Tax-free stipend of NZD $35,468 per year
- Annual CPI adjustment to the stipend value
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Health insurance costs where applicable
- Funding for up to 42 months of full-time doctoral study
- Access to mentoring, workshops and professional development activities
- Membership in a collaborative interdisciplinary PhD cohort
- Opportunities to engage with national and international Nature Positive innovation networks
The scholarship provides financial security and access to a vibrant academic community dedicated to sustainability-focused research.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for a Nature Positive PhD Scholarship, applicants must:
- Receive an offer of admission to an eligible doctoral programme within the University of Auckland Faculty of Business and Economics
- Be willing to undertake one of the advertised Nature Positive research projects
- Enrol as a full-time PhD student
- Commence studies in 2027
- Meet all doctoral admission requirements established by the University of Auckland
Applicants already enrolled in a PhD programme are not eligible. Candidates must join the programme as part of the 2027 scholarship cohort.
Admission to a doctoral programme does not automatically guarantee scholarship funding, as the scholarships are awarded through a competitive selection process.
Expression of Interest Process
Before submitting a formal doctoral application, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the relevant project contact.
The EOI should include:
- The title and number of the selected Nature Positive project
- A brief academic and personal statement of up to 500 words
- Academic transcripts
- A 500-word outline describing how the applicant would approach the project and the disciplinary perspectives they would apply
- An indication of whether applications are being submitted for multiple Nature Positive projects
The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 31 August 2026.
Application Process
Following the Expression of Interest stage, candidates must apply for admission to an eligible PhD programme within the Faculty of Business and Economics.
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must:
- Secure a firm offer of admission by 30 September 2026
- Indicate their willingness to work on an advertised Nature Positive research project in their research statement
- Meet all admission and scholarship requirements
Applicants are advised not to enrol in the doctoral programme until scholarship decisions have been announced.
Selection Timeline
The scholarship competition will be conducted in two rounds.
- Round 1: July–September 2026
- Round 2: Late 2026 or early 2027 if places remain available
Successful applicants will be notified:
- By 1 November 2026 for the first round
- By 1 February 2027 for the second round, if required
Preferred commencement dates are 1 February or 1 March 2027, with later start dates available for second-round candidates.
Why Apply?
The Nature Positive PhD Scholarships offer an exceptional opportunity for researchers seeking to contribute to global sustainability challenges through innovative business, economics and policy research. Scholars will benefit from generous financial support, interdisciplinary supervision, professional development opportunities and participation in a unique research community focused on creating positive environmental and societal impact.
For aspiring researchers committed to advancing biodiversity conservation, regenerative economies and sustainable development, this programme provides an outstanding pathway to doctoral study at one of New Zealand’s leading universities.
