Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships 2025-2026

Great news for early-career researchers! Applications are now open for the Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships 2025-2026. In this article, we outline the fellowship benefits, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step application process.

The Forrest Research Foundation Fellowship is a fully funded research program for exceptional international post-doctoral researchers. It offers an annual salary of up to AUD $95,000, an accommodation allowance of AUD $21,447 per year, and a one-time relocation and research travel allowance of AUD $12,000.

These fellowships are awarded to early-stage researchers who have already made notable contributions to their field and demonstrate exceptional potential. Established in 2014 through a $65 million donation from Andrew and Nicola Forrest via the Minderoo Foundation, the program aims to position Western Australia as a world-class hub for research and innovation.

Fellows will conduct high-quality research at one of five partner universities — Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, Notre Dame University (Fremantle Campus), or The University of Western Australia. Alongside their research, Fellows will contribute to the Foundation’s mission through mentoring, leadership, and ambassadorial duties, including engagement within Forrest Hall.

Scholarship Summary

• Level of Study: Post-doctoral

• Host Institutions: Forrest Research Foundation / Australian Universities

• Location: Australia

• Participating Universities: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, Notre Dame University (Fremantle), The University of Western Australia

• Program Duration: 3 years

• Deadline: 31 May (applications open mid-May)

Scholarship Coverage

Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships will provide:

• Salary consistent with a Level A Step 8 appointment (for example The University of Western Australia Salary Scales approximately $95,000 in salary plus 17% superannuation)

• An accommodation allowance of  $21,447 per annum in 2023 (subject to marginal tax rate)

• A once-off relocation and research travel allowance of $12,000.

Eligibility Criteria for Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships

To qualify for Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships, the candidate must fulfil all of the following requirements below:

• Required Language: English.

• Eligible Countries: All world countries

• To be eligible to apply applicants must be in their final year of PhD or no more than two years post PhD conferral.

• Applicants must reside at Forrest Hall for the duration of the Fellowship.

• Applicants must be intending to meet the requirements of a Forrest Fellow including mentoring of Forrest Scholars, ambassadorial duties for the Forrest Research Foundation and in providing leadership within Forrest Hall.

• Applicants must meet employment eligibility conditions at the nominated university.

• Researchers from all disciplines are eligible to apply.

• Find out more: Forrest Research Foundation Fellowship Guidelines here.

How to Apply for Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships?

Please follow the following application instructions to apply for Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships:

1. Applicants must contact the research group/department where they wish to conduct their post-doctoral research and receive direct confirmation that their work will be mentored by a senior member of the academic staff.

2. The Foundation will contact the proposed academic mentor of shortlisted applicants to request formal confirmation of their support.

3. Complete the application which includes:

   • Completed application form.

   • Curriculum vitae.

   • Publications list.

   • Grants and awards list.

   • Impact statement addressing the selection criteria and the applicant’s desire to make a difference with their research.

   • Contact details for four referees.

   • Photograph

Website

To learn more about the Forrest Research Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowships, please visit the official website:

Official Website