Research
Ranked number 269th in the world and 34th in the Asia-Pacific region by the Shanghai Jiaotong University Academic Rankings of World Universities in 2008, Macquarie is a research intensive university. Clearly defined strategies are in place to achieve the goal of ranking amongst the top 200 research intensive universities in the world by 2014:
- 18 Concentrations of Research Excellence (CORE) are established to attract major external funding while building international profiles.
- A Director for International Higher Degree Research Marketing & Development was facilitates joint PhD programs with other research-intensive international universities.
- By the end of 2008, 47 cotutelle agreements were established with over 30 leading overseas universities in 19 countries.
- International PhD applications are accepted all year round, making it more flexible for potential applicants. Around 900 Higher Degree Research (HDR) applications are assessed by the Higher Degree Research Office per year.
- Nearly 40% of current HDR students receive scholarships. The Macquarie Research Excellence Scholarship (MQRES) budget was increased to $16.3 million in 2009.
- 12 internal research grant funding schemes for research staff and students was created with a total budget of $22 million in 2009.
- The University Library provides specific support to researchers and HDR students, including dedicated research areas within the New Library Building to be opened in 2010.
- Macquarie’s research capacity will soon be enhanced by major infrastructure development including the $180 million Macquarie University Private Hospital and the $140 million Hearing Hub.
Thanks to our successful internationalisation and research strategies, Macquarie’s international research reputation soared in recent years. By the end of 2008, 1508 HDR students were enrolled at Macquarie, including 31% international students. In 2008, 42% of the 415 commencing HDR students were international students.