The Forrest Foundation Fellowship 2026 in Australia is now open for applications, offering a fully funded opportunity for exceptional researchers from around the world. This prestigious fellowship supports postdoctoral research at one of five leading Western Australian universities. Fellows will reside at the iconic Forrest Hall on the University of Western Australia campus in Perth, creating a vibrant academic community focused on groundbreaking research. The fellowship spans three years and is open to both domestic and international candidates from any discipline.
Designed to attract top-tier talent, the Forrest Foundation Fellowship 2026 provides generous financial support, including salary, research expenses, and living accommodations. There is no application fee, making it even more accessible for passionate researchers aiming to contribute to global knowledge and innovation. Whether your work focuses on science, technology, the humanities, or the arts, this fellowship offers a unique platform to pursue high-impact research in Australia. Explore the eligibility criteria, benefits, and application steps below to start your journey toward academic excellence.
Financial Benefits of Forrest Foundation Fellowship 2026
The Program Covers:
- Salary
- Accommodation Allowance
- Research and Travel allowance
- Relocation allowance to/from Australia
Fellowship Location
Participants can conduct Research at one of the following Western Australian universities:
- Curtin University
- Edith Cowan University
- Murdoch University
- The University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle Campus)
- The University of Western Australia
Eligibility Requirements for the Forrest Research Foundation Fellowship
- Have had your PhD conferred on or after January 1, 2023, OR complete all PhD requirements by December 31, 2025.
- Intend to reside at Forrest Hall for the duration of the Fellowship (with potential exemptions considered by the Governors of the Forrest Research Foundation).
- Have been offered and accepted an employment contract at a Western Australian university. The Forrest Foundation will arrange this contract for successful applicants.
- Receive your PhD conferral before starting your appointment.
- Take up the Fellowship and commence employment at the university within 12 months of being awarded the Fellowship.
- Agree to report your progress annually to the Forrest Research Foundation Director and the Minderoo Foundation.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Referee contact details
- Photograph
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Forrest Foundation Fellowship 2026 in Australia is a prestigious postdoctoral award offering salary, allowances, and support to outstanding interdisciplinary researchers within two years post-PhD. Applicants need clear proposals, strong referees, and should apply online from mid-May to June.
What is the Forrest Foundation Fellowship in Australia 2026?
The Forrest Foundation Fellowship is a highly competitive postdoctoral award supporting early-career researchers in Australia. It funds salary, generous allowances, and encourages adventurous, interdisciplinary, and impact‑focused research beyond traditional academic boundaries.
Who is eligible for the 2026 Forrest Fellowship?
Applicants must be in their final PhD year or within two years post‑PhD. For the 2026 round, candidates should have their doctorate conferred on or after 1 January 2023, or complete all PhD requirements by 31 Dec 2025. This ensures timely postdoctoral engagement.
What benefits does the Fellowship offer?
Fellowship benefits include a Level A Step 8 salary (circa \$108,362 in 2025), 17% superannuation, a \$25,116 accommodation allowance, and a one‑off \$12,000 research/travel stipend. Interstate or international relocation costs, including airfare, are also supported.
How do I apply for the 2026 Forrest Fellowship?
To apply, complete the official online application form when the round opens (around mid‑May to June). You’ll need your CV, publication and grant records, three referees, and a clear, plain‑English research proposal emphasising impact and fit in Western Australia.
When can I expect the application period to open and close?
Application rounds typically open in mid‑May and close in June each year. The exact dates vary, so subscribing for updates is recommended. The portal opens only during the active round, and deadlines are firm—typically late June—so plan accordingly.
What should my research proposal include?
Your proposal should be written in clear, plain English, highlighting the significance and impact of your work, and why it’s best based in Western Australia. Include interdisciplinary angles, broader benefits, and alignment with the foundation’s mission and research community.
Who makes a good referee for my application?
You need three referees, at least two academic. Choose supervisors or colleagues familiar with your research and achievements. You can include one personal referee if they know your broader attributes, but they must not be related to you.
How does the Fellowship align with my research career development?
This Fellowship supports adventurous interdisciplinary research beyond your PhD, mentoring, leadership development, and community engagement. It’s designed to build intellectual bridges, foster new ideas, and amplify your broader research impact nationally.
Can I defer the start of my Fellowship?
Deferral is generally discouraged; awardees should begin before September of the Fellowship year. However, in exceptional circumstances, you may request a deferral by submitting a letter outlining your situation directly to the Foundation’s Director.
What support is available if I have technical issues submitting?
All applications are submitted online via the official portal when open. If you encounter technical difficulties, contact the Foundation immediately for assistance. The support team can help resolve issues before the deadline closes in June.
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