PhD Opportunity - Detecting and quantifying methane emissions from a heterogeneous landscape using satellites and AI technologies

Sep 15, 2026

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RIEL is inviting applications for a PhD focused on methane monitoring through remote sensing and artificial intelligence. The project will apply Earth observation data, including satellites and drones, combined with deep learning to detect methane plumes and quantify emission rates in Australia’s Beetaloo region. The outcomes include a robust monitoring framework supporting evidence-based decisions and sustainable resource development. Scholarship support is available for domestic and international candidates, including stipends, fee offsets, and potential top-ups, alongside professional development and wellbeing services.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

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Pages3

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Project overview

Scholarship and financial support

About the project

About you

Benefits to you

Selection criteria

How to apply

PhD Opportunity: Detecting and quantifying methane emissions from a heterogeneous landscape using satellites and AI technologies The Research Institute for Environment and Livelihoods (RIEL) is seeking expressions of interest from outstanding candidates for a groundbreaking PhD project focused on methane monitoring using remote sensing and artificial intelligence (AI) . This exciting project offers a unique opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team comprising researchers from across the University and government agencies. The successful candidate will utilise cuttingedge Earth observation technologies, including satellites, drones, and AI-based analytical methods, to detect methane emission sources and quantify emission rates in the Beetaloo region of the Northern Territory, Australia. The research will contribute to the development of a robust methane monitoring framework to support environmental stewardship, evidence-based decision-making, and sustainable resource development. The project will provide valuable training and experience at the intersection of remote sensing, geospatial science, environmental monitoring, and machine learning. Scholarship and financial support: For Domestic Candidates: • CDU RTP stipend ($35,489 per annum from 2026, indexed annually and tax exempt), for up to three years from commencement, open to Australian citizens/residents or New Zealand citizens (domestic students) . • A stipend top-up of up to $18,000 per annum may be available. • RTP Fee Offset (full tuition fee waiver) for three years. For International Candidates: • CDU RTP stipend ($35,489 per annum from 2026, indexed annually and tax exempt), for up to three years from commencement • A stipend top-up of up to $18,000 per annum may be available. • RTP Fee Offset (full tuition fee waiver) for three years. • We note that RTP scholarships for international candidates are limited and highly competitive. To meet the eligibility criteria for this stipend, only international candidates with outstanding academic performance are encouraged to apply. About the project: Methane is the second-largest contributor to global warming, and anthropogenic sources are elevating atmospheric concentrations. Oil and gas development in the Beetaloo region of the Northern Territory of Australia will increase social and economic growth. However, it may also elevate methane levels, necessitating a robust monitoring program. This project will leverage satellite imagery and deep learning methods to detect methane plumes and quantify emission rates. The anticipated outcomes include the development of a methane monitoring tool that provides accurate detection rates and estimates at varied spatial and temporal scales. This project will feed into the Northern Territory Government-CDU regional monitoring program for the Beetaloo region, supporting the myriad stakeholders in the area. About you: • You have a research background (Honours or Masters) in Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, or similar field, and bring a high level of academic merit consistent with RTP stipend scholarship requirements • Hold an Australian driving license or the capacity and willingness to obtain one • Would ideally be based or willing to relocate to Darwin • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Curious and innovative • Ability to work independently with a high level of initiative as well as collaboratively • Attention to detail • Commitment to research excellence Benefits to you: • Take advantage of professional development training programs available for PhD students • Play an integral role in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary research team • Contribute to research with real-world impact • Access to Student Support Services and Wellbeing Support Program • Work with a University committed to changing people’s lives for the better through train

FAQs

What will the PhD project focus on?

Detecting and quantifying methane emissions using satellite imagery and AI methods. The work targets methane plumes and emission rates in the Beetaloo region.

Who can apply and what background is expected?

Applicants should have research experience (Honours or Masters) in relevant areas such as remote sensing, environmental or atmospheric science, computer/data science, or physics. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are required.

What funding and scholarship support are offered?

Domestic and international candidates may receive a CDU RTP stipend for up to three years, potential stipend top-ups, and a full tuition fee waiver for three years. International RTP scholarships are noted as limited and highly competitive.

Sep 15, 2026

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