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Study in New Zealand | Massey University PhD Scholarship 2026

February 25, 2026 7:35 am

Study in New Zealand | Massey University PhD Scholarship 2026

Do you want to conduct groundbreaking research at the intersection of public health and emerging drug policy? Massey University offers you a rare and prestigious opportunity. The SHORE & Whāriki Research Centre has announced a fully funded PhD scholarship under the Royal Society Te Apārangi Rutherford Discovery Fellowship for 2026. This is your chance to explore one of the most rapidly evolving policy fields of our time: cannabis legalisation and its commercial determinants of health.

Hosted at Massey University’s Albany campus in Auckland, this programme welcomes candidates from around the world. You will develop independent research examining how the emerging cannabis industry shapes public health narratives, regulatory frameworks, and digital information environments. Consequently, your work could influence real-world policy decisions.

However, you must act fast. Only one fully funded position exists for this competitive scholarship. International applicants are welcome, but you must be ready to relocate to New Zealand for full-time doctoral research starting in 2026.

Comprehensive Financial Support

This scholarship allows you to focus entirely on your research without financial distraction. The funding package ensures stability throughout your doctoral journey.

Annual Tax-Free Stipend: You will receive $35,000 per year to cover your living expenses. Importantly, this amount is tax-free.
Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship pays your full doctoral tuition fees for the entire three-year duration.
Three Years of Funding: You receive total support for three years of full-time PhD study.
Flexible Start Date: You can begin your research from May 2026, giving you time to plan your relocation.
World-Class Facilities: You gain access to leading research supervision and top-tier facilities in New Zealand.

Eligibility and Ideal Candidate Profile

This scholarship seeks candidates with diverse academic backgrounds who share a passion for public health and drug policy. You do not need to be a public health specialist; the programme values interdisciplinary perspectives.

To be eligible, you must:

Qualify for admission to a PhD programme at Massey University
Then, be open to international or domestic applicants—no citizenship restrictions apply
Also, hold a background in fields such as public health, drug policy, social sciences, media studies, business, or digital marketing
Additionally, demonstrate a strong interest in cannabis policy, regulatory systems, or the commercial determinants of health
Afterwards, show willingness to relocate to New Zealand for full-time, in-person research
Finally, have the ability to develop an independent PhD research proposal that aligns with the programme’s focus

The ideal candidate brings curiosity, analytical rigor, and a genuine desire to examine how commercial forces shape public health outcomes.

Your Research Focus

You will investigate how the cannabis industry influences public health. This could include studying industry marketing tactics, examining regulatory responses, or analyzing digital information environments. Your research will sit at the crossroads of public health and policy, offering you the chance to produce work with global relevance. Also, New Zealand provides a unique case study as the country continues to navigate its own cannabis policy landscape.

How to Apply

First, develop a strong independent research proposal. This proposal must align with the programme’s focus on cannabis policy and commercial determinants of health. Next, gather your academic transcripts, CV, and proof of qualifications. Then, secure compelling letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your research potential.

Submit your complete application through the official Massey University portal. Ensure every document meets their specifications. Shortlisted candidates will receive interview invitations in early April 2026, so keep your schedule flexible.

Click Here to Apply

The Critical Deadline

Time is your most valuable asset. The final date to apply for this fully funded PhD scholarship is March 20, 2026.

Do not wait until the last week. Start crafting your research proposal today, reach out to potential supervisors, and prepare your documents. This is more than a scholarship—it is your opportunity to shape public health policy on a global stage.

Your journey to becoming a leading researcher in cannabis policy starts now. Take the first step before the deadline passes.