How do children learn to read and spell irregular words?

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is offering one full-time PhD scholarship to undertake research investigating children's ability to learn to read new words that do not follow phonics pronunciations rules.

Study mode: Full-time for up to 3.5 years

Location: North Sydney campus

What you'll investigate

The successful candidate will work with Dr Signy Wegener on her Australian Research Council-funded DECRA Fellowship. The project will involve conducting experimental training studies within primary school settings. Ultimately, results of this project will shed light on how to improve the teaching of irregular word reading and spelling in Australian classrooms.

Your research community

Principal supervisor

Dr Signy Wegener

View profile

Faculty

Faculty of Education and Arts

Research at ACU's Faculty of Education and Arts explores the transformative power of learning, culture, and creativity. Through interdisciplinary inquiry in education, humanities, and the arts, our researchers address social and cultural challenges, inform policy and practice, and contribute to a more inclusive and reflective society.

Visit the faculty research website

Affiliation

Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy

The Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy was established in 2023 with the twin aims of conducting world-leading research on how children learn to read and translating this research into effective teaching practices. In establishing the Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy, the Faculty of Education and Arts at Australian Catholic University sought to appoint both established and early career reading researchers of the highest calibre both domestically and internationally. This goal has been achieved. The Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy is now host to the largest number of high-calibre researchers working on questions related to reading acquisition in this country. Researchers in this team both generate and translate knowledge about evidence-informed literacy instruction and interventions across the school years. The Centre is developing a range of courses and graduate certificates, while also actively collaborating with schools across the education sector to ensure teachers have access to high-quality professional learning and co-designed classroom interventions based on the latest research.

Visit the ACAL website

How to apply

Applications close: Open until awarded

Step 1: Assess your eligibility

Eligibility

Before you apply, confirm you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• This opportunity is open to domestic and international applicants.
• The eligibility criteria for the PhD program at ACU can be found in theHigher Degree Research Policy.
• The eligibility criteria for research scholarships can be found in theACU Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.

Requirements

In addition to the eligibility criteria, the successful applicant should have:

• Qualifications in a discipline related to reading (e.g., Cognitive Science, Psychology, Education)
• Strong interest in reading acquisition during primary school
• Strong interest in quantitative research methods, including experimental research
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Applicants must either hold or be willing to obtain a current Working with Children Check
• Experience working with children in research, educational, or clinical settings (desirable)
• Experience with data collection and/or statistical analysis (desirable)

Conditions

By applying, you acknowledge and accept the following conditions:

• The scholarship package is subject to satisfactory progress and full-time study mode.
• The scholarship conditions align with theACU Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.
• The successful applicant will be required to assign their intellectual property (IP) to ACU as a condition of enrolment.

Step 2: Express your interest

Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Signy Wegener prior to applying for the PhD program and scholarship, to express their interest and discuss the project in detail.

Email: signy.wegener@acu.edu.au

Step 3: Submit your application

To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must submit all documentation required for an application to the PhD program at ACU, as detailed in the How to Apply instructions, plus:

• A CV outlining relevant academic and practical experience; and
• A cover letter detailing demonstrated interest and/or experience in the program of research described.

When completing the PhD application form, please indicate that you are also applying for a stipend scholarship and include the name of this project "How do children learn to read and spell irregular words?".

Funding Notes

Stipend scholarship: A$34,315 per annum (tax-free, indexed) for up to 3.5 years, providing financial stability while you focus on your research.

Tuition fee scholarship: Full tuition fee coverage valued at approximately A$34,728 per annum for up to 3.5 years.

International candidates:

Comprehensive health insurance that provides access to essential medical services throughout your stay in Australia, while ensuring you meet all visa requirements.

Up to A$2,000 relocation allowance to assist with the costs of moving to Australia.