Calling Trailblazing Researchers: International Postdoctoral Forrest Fellowships 2026 Now Open!

Are you a bold, innovative early-career researcher ready to tackle global challenges? Do you dream of pushing the boundaries of knowledge in a supportive and dynamic environment? Then your opportunity has arrived! Applications are now being accepted for the prestigious International Postdoctoral Forrest Fellowships 2026 in Western Australia.

This fully funded fellowship program, offered by the Forrest Research Foundation, is designed to attract exceptional postdoctoral researchers from around the world to conduct high-impact research at one of Western Australia’s leading universities:

University of Western Australia (UWA)
Curtin University
Edith Cowan University
Murdoch University
Notre Dame University (Fremantle campus)³⁴

What Makes the Forrest Fellowship Stand Out?

Fully Funded Opportunity: Focus on your research without financial constraints.⁵ The fellowship offers a highly competitive salary (Level A Step 8 equivalent, e.g., AUD $108,362 per annum at UWA in 2025, plus superannuation), a generous accommodation allowance (AUD $25,116 per annum in 2025), and a one-off research and travel allowance (AUD $12,000). Relocation support is also provided.
Unrestricted Disciplinary Scope: Your research can span any discipline, as long as it is groundbreaking, interdisciplinary, and addresses issues of global or community relevance.
Emphasis on Innovation and Impact: The Forrest Foundation seeks researchers who think unconventionally, embrace interdisciplinary collaboration, and are dedicated to creating research with real-world impact.
Leadership and Mentorship Opportunities: As a Forrest Fellow, you’ll be an integral part of a vibrant intellectual community with opportunities for mentorship, ambassadorial roles, and active involvement within the Forrest Research Foundation.⁶
Career Advancement: The fellowship aims to propel your career, with potential for Level B appointments based on university support.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

To be eligible for the International Postdoctoral Forrest Fellowships 2026, applicants must:

Be in the final year of their PhD (completing all requirements by December 31, 2025), OR have completed their PhD on or after January 1, 2023.
Demonstrate a record of outstanding academic achievement and international research experience.
Be prepared to reside at Forrest Hall for the duration of the fellowship.
Secure a postdoctoral position and the support of a mentor at one of the participating Western Australian universities.

Courses and Research Scope

There are no disciplinary limitations—you can apply from any research field, as long as your work is groundbreaking, collaborative, and globally relevant. Your research project should ideally:

Extend beyond your PhD focus
Bridge intellectual gaps within and across disciplines
Aim for community and global impact.

How to Apply:

The application process involves several key steps:

Identify a Host Institution and Mentor: Engage with a research group or department at one of the five participating universities to discuss your proposed research and secure a mentor who is supportive of your application. Contact your proposed mentor well in advance of the deadline.
Prepare Your Application Materials: This includes:
- Completed online application form (available on the Forrest Research Foundation website when applications open on May 15, 2025).
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages).
- List of publications.
- List of grants and awards.
- Contact details for three referees (at least two academic).
- A research proposal in plain English, emphasizing the impact of your work and why it should take place in Western Australia.
- An impact statement addressing the selection criteria and your desire to make a difference with your research.
Submit Your Application: Applications must be submitted online through the Forrest Research Foundation application portal.

Key Dates:

Applications Open: May 15, 2025
Application Deadline: May 31, 2025
Fellowship Commencement: Between January and December 2026

Forest Fellowship Benefits (2026 Intake)

Successful Forrest Fellows will receive:

Salary: Approx. AUD $108,362 per year (Level A Step 8), plus 17% superannuation
Accommodation Allowance: AUD $25,116 per year (2025 rate, subject to tax)
Research & Travel Allowance: One-time AUD $12,000 for research and international conferences
Relocation Support: Economy airfare and relocation expenses to Perth for interstate or international fellows
Leadership Opportunities: Mentoring, ambassadorial roles, and active involvement with the Forrest Research Foundation community.
Appointments at a higher salary level (Level B) may be considered based on university support.

APPLY HERE

Don’t Miss This Chance to Shape the Future!

The International Postdoctoral Forrest Fellowships offer an exceptional launchpad for ambitious early-career researchers to pursue groundbreaking research in a world-class environment.¹⁶ If you are ready to take intellectual risks, thrive on interdisciplinary exploration, and are committed to making a tangible impact, we encourage you to apply.

For complete details and to access the application portal when it opens, please visit the official Forrest Research Foundation website: https://forrestresearch.org.au/fellowships/

Your next transformative research journey in Australia awaits!

Down Under Wonder: Why Australia is More Interesting Than You Think

“G’day mate!” Ever found yourself picturing endless deserts and kangaroos when you think of Australia? While those iconic images are certainly part of the story, the Land Down Under is a whole lot more intriguing than you might imagine. Forget the stereotypes for a moment, grab a virtual Vegemite sandwich (if you dare!), and let’s dive into why Australia is a seriously fascinating place.

More Than Just Sunshine and Surf: A Land of Ancient Secrets

Forget the notion of a “young” country. Australia’s geological history stretches back billions of years, earning it the title of the “Oldest Continent.” This ancient foundation has sculpted breathtakingly diverse landscapes that go far beyond golden beaches. Think dramatic red deserts stretching to the horizon, like the awe-inspiring Uluru (Ayers Rock), a monolith whispering tales of millennia. Imagine stepping into lush, emerald rainforests teeming with life, or being surprised by snow-capped mountains in the Australian Alps – yes, they get more snow than you might think! And let’s not forget the jewel in its crown: the Great Barrier Reef, a living, breathing masterpiece visible from space, teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine wonders.

Creatures You Won’t Believe: A Wildlife Wonderland

Australia’s geographical isolation has acted like a natural laboratory, birthing some of the planet’s most unique and, frankly, bizarre creatures. Where else can you encounter a mammal that lays eggs (hello, platypus and echidna!), a cuddly-looking marsupial with a pouch (the iconic kangaroo and koala), or a furry, cube-shaped wombat? With an estimated 80% of its mammals, reptiles, and frogs found nowhere else on Earth, Australia is a living, breathing wildlife documentary waiting to be explored. Prepare for encounters that will make your jaw drop!

A Cultural Tapestry Woven Through Time:

Australia’s story is far richer than its colonial past. For at least 50,000 to 65,000 years, Aboriginal Australians have called this land home, their ancient culture a vibrant tapestry of traditions, Dreamtime stories, and breathtaking art. It’s one of the oldest continuous cultures on the planet, offering profound insights into human history and connection to the land. Fast forward to more recent times, and you’ll find a nation built on the unique foundation of a former penal colony, evolving into a dynamic, multicultural society. Cities like Melbourne pulse with the energy of diverse communities, even boasting the second-largest Greek population outside of Athens!

Beyond the Obvious: Quirks and Surprises:

Australia has a knack for the unexpected:

Camel Country: Believe it or not, the land of kangaroos actually boasts the largest population of wild camels on Earth!
The Great Emu War: In a truly bizarre chapter of history, the Australian military once declared war on emus… and lost!
A Fence Longer Than the Great Wall: The Dingo Fence stretches for thousands of kilometers, a testament to the Aussie determination to protect their livestock.
Wine Lovers’ Paradise: Beyond the beer, Australia’s over 60 distinct wine regions produce world-class drops.
The Giant Sandcastle: K’gari (Fraser Island) isn’t just any island; it’s the world’s largest sand island, complete with rainforests and freshwater lakes perched amongst the dunes.

So, How Interesting is Australia? Utterly Captivating!

From its ancient landscapes and bizarre wildlife to its rich Indigenous heritage and quirky modern culture, Australia is a continent brimming with intrigue. It’s a place that constantly surprises, challenges your expectations, and leaves you with a sense of wonder. So, ditch the stereotypes and prepare to be amazed. The Land Down Under is calling, and it’s far more interesting than you ever imagined!

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