Pridmore Women in STEM Vacation Research Scholarship

Fannie Pridmore (died 1955) was a local Hawthorn identity who left a bequest to Swinburne.

Fannie was the widow of J Brook Pridmore. Councillor Pridmore, of Hawthorn Council, was appointed to the Swinburne College Council as a representative of the Hawthorn City Council in 1935 and was elected President in 1939.  He was President to the time of his illness in late 1953. 

In memory of the late Pridmores, this scholarship provides a female student with the unique opportunity to obtain experience in STEM-related research. The scholarships offer students the experience of working with Swinburne University researchers and provides them with an insight into the research process.

Research Project

Asbestos identification is a major problem for the building construction industry, in firefighting and for home renovators as the material is highly toxic and fast identification is challenging. 

In this research project you will work with a team of interdisciplinary researchers in chemistry and computer science/Internet of Things to use artificial intelligence to develop a phone application capable of instantaneous asbestos identification.

Vacation Research Scholarships may commence Dec 2018, and conclude by July 2019.

Any Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related degree.

The research project would suit someone with an interest in gaining experience in signal processing and  machine learning algorithm development with an applied context.

The student should have strong analytical skills, an interest in working in a multidisciplinary environment, machine learning and a background in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics or similar field. 

To be eligible, applicants must be entering into their third or fourth (3rd or 4th) year, of a 3 or 4-year degree respectively.

Also submit the following with their application:

1. A personal statement of no more than 500 words outlining your reasons for applying and your passion for STEM research.

2. Evidence of leadership qualities and/or extra-curricular service to the community; and

3. Two referee reports (please include the title/position of your referees):

• one academic reference – from a person qualified to comment on your academic studies.
• one character reference – from a person competent to supply a character reference (for example, a person with whom you have undertaken volunteer work or community activities or a current or past employer) outlining your suitability for the scholarship.

Each scholarship is valued at $500 per week over a period of six to eight (6-8) weeks. There are 2 scholarships available to be awarded

Applications are now closed.

Scholarships and Orientation, Student Administration and Library Services

scholarship@swin.edu.au