Our research
The journey of discovery starts here
As a leading Australian research-intensive university, UWA’s Faculty of Science is at the forefront of discovery. Our global vision focuses on research that addresses challenges facing humanity over the next 50 years.
Being 'in the zone'
UWA is very much 'in the zone' meaning we're ideally situated within the Asian time zone that's home to 60% of the global population and many of the world's emerging economic powerhouses. It's a region that's playing an increasingly influential role in international business, innovation and industry, and we're at the heart of it.
A biodiversity hotspot
We are also located close to an international biodiversity hotspot in Australia's South West – an area of 300,000 square kilometres, with 13,500 kilometres of coastline. In addition to more than 1500 plant species and a host of endemic mammals, we have World Heritage-listed Shark Bay and Ningaloo Reef – one of the world's largest fringing reefs – on our doorstep.
Read more about our unique environment and some of the many research opportunities it presents.
13th in the world for Anatomy and Physiology (QS 2018)
21st in the world for Sports-related subjects (QS 2018)
1st in Australia and 14th in the world for Agricultural Sciences (ARWU 2018)
1st in Australia and 18th in the world for Environmental Science and Engineering (ARWU 2018)
Learn how to harness the power of science to change lives for the better. Your studies will involve not only the theory, but the crucial technical skills of your chosen field. Whether it's in our world-class laboratories, on exciting field trips or in real-world industry placements, we give you the chance to become immersed in the hands-on side of science.Professor Tony O’Donnell, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean Faculty of Science
Bettering the world
The diverse nature of our Faculty and Western Australia's resource-rich environment give our students unique research opportunities. Our Faculty focuses on meaningful change for the world and humanity in six areas:
Feeding the world
Our agricultural research is helping make chronic hunger and malnutrition a thing of the past.
Preventing, diagnosing and treating disease
Our wide-ranging research addresses some of the world's most significant health issues, from prevention and diagnosis, to treatment and cure.
Furthering human knowledge and serving humanity
Our research is redefining the boundaries of scientific knowledge and driving positive global change for better lives and communities.
Harnessing resources and energy for a sustainable future
Our energy and geoscience research is helping create a world of secure, sustainable and emission-free minerals and energy.
Restoring and maintaining balance in our natural environment
Our environmental research at UWA is protecting biodiversity and helping keep man-made climate change in check.
Optimising physical and mental performance
Our researchers are discovering ways to improve the quality of life by better understanding how we think, feel and move.
Apply for postgraduate study
Our facilities
The Faculty of Science is home to a wide range of facilities which support world-class research and teaching activities.
Research partnerships
UWA is one of only two Australian universities to belong to the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), a partnership of 18 research-led universities from Europe, North America, Southeast Asia and Australia.
This international alliance fosters and encourages collaboration between members. It brings together the experience, equipment and expertise necessary to tackle the big issues currently facing societies, governments, corporations and education.
Our people
We are home to award winning researchers and academics who are experts in their field.
Affiliated centres and institutes
Related links
Faculty of Science
Faculty of Science is uncovering exactly how it has the power to change our world for the better
PhD opportunities in Science
You can research your PhD at UWA and join leading academics and researchers on innovative projects answering the world’s big questions through our PhD opportunities in Science.
Our courses
The Faculty of Science connects several disciplines to explore big questions facing humanity across human, environmental and agricultural sciences.
Fees and Scholarships
Discover fees information and learn about our range of scholarships.