The Forrest Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027 in Australia offers a prestigious and fully funded research opportunity for early-career scholars worldwide. Moreover, this fellowship is designed for outstanding researchers seeking to conduct innovative, cross-disciplinary work at leading universities in Western Australia.
Additionally, the program emphasizes leadership development, academic collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. Consequently, fellows gain not only financial support but also long-term professional growth.
This fully funded postdoctoral fellowship in Australia supports researchers who demonstrate academic excellence, creativity, and the potential to deliver high-impact research across all academic fields.
Fellowship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institutions | Leading universities in Western Australia |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Program Level | Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Study Fields | All Subjects |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students |
| Location | Australia |
About the Forrest Research Foundation
The Forrest Research Foundation (FRF) is dedicated to attracting exceptional global research talent to Western Australia. Furthermore, the Foundation seeks scholars who demonstrate intellectual curiosity alongside academic achievement.
In fact, FRF values interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking beyond traditional research boundaries. Moreover, the Foundation actively promotes research that benefits society and strengthens public engagement.
As a result, Forrest Fellows are encouraged to build meaningful academic and community partnerships throughout their fellowship period.
Financial Benefits of the Forrest Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Forrest Research Foundation Fellowship provides comprehensive financial and professional support. Additionally, fellows receive resources that allow them to focus fully on research excellence.
| Benefit Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | Level A Step 8 (approximately AUD 108,362 in 2025) plus 17% superannuation |
| Accommodation Allowance | AUD 25,116 per year (taxable) |
| Research & Travel Grant | One-time AUD 12,000 |
| Relocation Support | Economy airfare to Perth |
| Professional Development | Leadership training and mentoring programs |
Furthermore, Level B appointments may be offered with university approval in certain cases.
Participating Universities in Western Australia
Fellows are hosted at one of the following prestigious institutions:
Curtin University
Edith Cowan University
Murdoch University
The University of Notre Dame Australia
The University of Western Australia
Moreover, applicants must secure an academic mentor from one of these universities before submitting their application. Consequently, early contact with potential supervisors is essential.
Eligible Nationalities
The Forrest Postdoctoral Fellowship is open to applicants from all countries. Therefore, there are no nationality restrictions.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be in the final year of a PhD or within two years of PhD completion
For the 2025 intake (commencing 2026):
PhD conferred on or after 1 January 2024, or
All requirements completed by 31 December 2026
Demonstrate strong academic performance and research potential
Show willingness to relocate to Western Australia
Applicants from all disciplines are eligible
Additionally, career interruptions are assessed according to Australian Research Council guidelines.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
Academic excellence and research achievements
Originality and impact of the proposed research project
Interdisciplinary collaboration potential
Leadership ability and community engagement
Alignment with the Forrest Research Foundation mission
Therefore, applicants should highlight both research quality and leadership capacity.
How to Apply for the Forrest Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027
All applications must be submitted online through the Forrest Research Foundation application portal once applications open.
Required Documents
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Completed online |
| Curriculum Vitae | Updated CV |
| Publications List | All academic outputs |
| Grants & Awards | Record of achievements |
| Referees | Three referees (minimum two academic) |
Moreover, referee reports are typically requested during the interview stage
Important Application Dates
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Mid to late May |
| Application Deadline | June |
Consequently, applicants should monitor official Forrest Research Foundation updates for confirmed deadlines.
Application Tips for Success
To strengthen your application:
Write a clear and engaging research proposal in plain language
Highlight the impact of your research on Western Australia and globally
Contact your proposed mentor at least one month before the deadline
Emphasize leadership experience and community involvement
Demonstrate how you will contribute to the Forrest Fellows community
Furthermore, strong alignment with the Foundation’s mission significantly improves selection chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Forrest Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship provides full financial support, including salary, accommodation allowance, research funding, and relocation assistance.
Can international researchers apply for the fellowship?
Yes, applicants from all countries and nationalities are eligible to apply.
Which universities host Forrest Fellows?
Fellows are hosted at Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, The University of Notre Dame Australia, and The University of Western Australia.
Is securing a mentor mandatory before applying?
Yes, applicants must confirm an academic mentor from one of the host universities prior to submitting their application.
What fields of study are accepted?
All academic disciplines are eligible under the Forrest Postdoctoral Fellowship program.
When do applications usually open?
Applications generally open between mid to late May and close in June each year.
