Empowering Scholars, Shaping the Future: Monash University, Indonesia Announces 2024 Inspire Doctoral Scholarship Program and Commemorates Inaugural PhD Cohort
Tangerang, April 2, 2024 – Monash University, Indonesia launches the 2024 Inspire Doctoral Scholarship Program and proudly commemorates the commencement of its inaugural cohort of remarkable PhD scholars. Amanda Tan, Risty, and Fithro, have embarked on transformative journeys at Monash University Indonesia, with each bringing a unique blend of expertise and dedication to their respective fields.
Amanda Tan, PhD student in Public Policy and IIDSP Scholarship Awardee
Amanda Tan, a student in the field of Public Policy, is a first-generation PhD student in her family. With a passion for social sciences, Amanda is determined to contribute to scholarly discourse and policy change. Her decision to pursue her PhD at Monash University, Indonesia reflects her belief in the university's commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.
“My desire to be like my teachers and lecturers was stronger after I graduated from my Masters at Monash University, Indonesia. (...) I am willing to extend the perspectives that my current supervisor has imparted to me (...), further contributing to the production of scholarly knowledge.
Risty Khoirunisa is dedicated to championing urban biodiversity through Landscape Ecology. With a Master's degree specialising in Landscape and Environmental Management, Risty's growing knowledge in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing align with her ambition to become a future leader in environmental stewardship. Her recent work on projects to create more livable and sustainable cities are aligned with her passion for ecological resilience and urban development.
"I anticipate that the outcome of my PhD will contribute to the creation of more livable and sustainable cities that provide comfort to their citizens."
Fithrotul Khikmah has a background in geo-information science and photogrammetry, and is making strides as a pioneering scholar in spatial analysis for landscape conservation in Indonesia. Her research focuses on ecosystem sustainability within the dynamic peri-urban landscape of the Citarum River basin. Her dedication to converting academic research into real-world impact is aligned to Monash University, Indonesia's ethos of innovation and collaboration.
"My goal is to actively participate in multidisciplinary projects aimed at fostering a balance between human activities and nature, thus contributing to sustainable environmental practices."
As Vice-President of Research at Monash University, Indonesia, Alex Lechner is proud to have scholars like Fithro and Risty on board, seeing his own ambitions as a young scholar reflected in their dedication and passion for their research. Alex believes “Their commitment to making a tangible impact on society aligns perfectly with the university's ethos of innovation and collaboration. Their dedication to addressing pressing environmental and urban challenges resonates deeply with our mission to foster positive change in society. I am immensely proud to have them as part of our academic community, and I have no doubt that their research will make a significant difference in the world."
Professor Matthew Nicholson, Rector of Monash University, Indonesia comments "Making a contribution to solving some of the world’s most complex and intractable problems, particularly in the areas of climate change, geopolitical security and thriving communities, is at the very heart of the impact that Monash University seeks to make in the world. Our current PhD scholars are doing just that, through their dedication to addressing environmental and urban challenges. When I witness the dedication and passion of students such as Amanda, Risty and Fithro, I am confident that Indonesia’s future is in good hands."
These exemplary scholars have all earned scholarships, with one of them, Amanda Tan, a recipient of the Monash University, Indonesia Inspire Doctoral Scholarship Program (IIDSP) from 2023. As Monash University, Indonesia celebrates the achievements of its inaugural cohort, the University is delighted to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 Inspire Doctoral Scholarship Program. Aspiring PhD scholars are encouraged to explore the opportunities available through the IIDSP and join Monash University, Indonesia on a transformative journey of discovery and scholarly achievement.
About the 2024 IIDSP scholarship

The PhD program at Monash University, Indonesia offers a diverse range of research areas, providing exceptional students with the opportunity to explore their interests and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields. The available project areas for the 2024 scholarship round include:
- Data Science
- Business Innovation
- Public Health
- Cybersecurity
- Public Policy and Management
Academics at Monash University, Indonesia have listed their proposed projects on the website, ensuring a wide array of research opportunities for prospective PhD students.
The IIDSP scholarships provide numerous benefits to successful applicants, including full coverage of PhD tuition fees, project-related costs, and a living stipend of AUD $10,632 for the duration of 3.5 years. The scholarship rounds take place in July and January each year, with the current round opening this April 2024. The application deadline is 30 June 2024, and successful applicants will be contacted by September 2024.
Potential applicants can apply and read the requirements on our IIDSP Scholarship page.
About Monash University, Indonesia
Monash University, Indonesia is a renowned institution committed to excellence in education and research. With a global reputation for innovation and collaboration, Monash University, Indonesia provides a stimulating environment for scholars to thrive and make a positive impact on society.