Building a world worth living in.
With a national and international profile, we perform impactful research which addresses pressing global issues whilst respecting and applying the principles of First Nations ways of being, doing and knowing. We think big and take a grand challenge approach, as we strive to reshape the future of agriculture, water management, and environmental conservation.
There are no scholarships available currently. The next round of Gulbali Scholarships will be advertised in August 2026.
Project 1: Conversion of Agricultural Biowaste Into High-Value Biofertilisers and Soil Amendment Products
This project aims to transform agricultural waste and mushroom substrates into sustainable-release biofertilisers and soil amendment products using advanced cellulose–nanoclay technologies.
This PhD project focuses on converting crop residues, sugarcane bagasse, woodchips and compost into cost-effective biofertilisers and soil products. Using sustainable-release cellulose–nanoclay composites, the project will enhance nutrient utilisation, soil structure, water retention and pH stability, supporting crop growth and reducing waste to landfill. The candidate will advance circular-economy innovation and work closely with industry partners
Project 2: Sustainable Substrate Innovation for Mushroom Growth and Yield Improvement
This project aims to develop advanced, sustainable-release mushroom substrates using agricultural waste and nanomaterials to enhance exotic mushroom growth, productivity, and nutrient efficiency.
This PhD project will develop next-generation growth substrates for exotic mushrooms by integrating agricultural waste with engineered cellulose–nanoclay composites. The research will investigate nutrient release, water retention, pH stability, and cropping-cycle performance to significantly enhance mushroom yield and substrate quality. Working closely with industry, the candidate will contribute to transforming waste into high-value products and advancing sustainable mushroom production
Prospective applicants are asked to contact A/Prof Li Li before submitting a formal application.The candidate needs to discuss the proposal with A/Prof Li Li to ensure that the topic is aligned with the ARC project.
Suitable applicants will then need to apply for enrolment. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select Yes > Full-time AGRTP > Other > Enter ‘ARC Industry Fellowship PhD Scholarship’.
Applications will remain open until successful candidates have been selected.
A/Prof Li Li
Email: lili@csu.edu.au
Email gulbali@csu.edu.au
After working for several years in the Environmental field, I was keen to get back into research and Charles Sturt University was a great place to do so. Within the Gulbali Institute there are so many interesting and diverse people and projects that inspiration is never far. As a result, my PhD supervisory team was first class - knowledgeable, supportive and included a diverse group of academics and industry leaders. The regional setting of the Institute allowed me to pursue higher education while still living comfortably, something I don’t believe I could have accomplished at a metropolitan university.