The South Australian Government is committing $6 million over the next four years to entice world-class researchers to our state.
Funded through the Department of State Development's Research and Innovation Fund (RIF), the new South Australian Global Researcher Attraction Program will fund fellowships for up to four high-performing researchers, inviting them to apply their expertise to the advancement of South Australia’s priority industries, including:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Biotechnology and Green Chemistry
- Climate Adaptation
- Critical Minerals and Resources
- Critical Technologies (including Al, quantum and robotics technologies)
- Defence and Security (including cybersecurity and nuclear engineering)
- Green/Clean Energy and related industries
- Health and Digital Health Technologies.
Applications are sought from the state’s public universities and research institutes, who will identify talent, develop a business case detailing a researcher’s potential contributions and, if successful, co-fund the fellowship on a 1:1 basis.
Funding will support the delivery of a Fellow’s three-year research project to be undertaken predominately in South Australia.
Applicants will be required to demonstrate how the project will contribute to the development of the state’s skilled workforce and future research leaders, and how the findings are expected to translate into new products, processes or services to the benefit of our state.
State Government funding will support research project activities which may include hiring local personnel, stipends for research students, specialist equipment, and costs associated with the protection of intellectual property.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis over the program’s duration, assessed by an independent panel chaired by the Chief Scientist for South Australia, Professor Craig Simmons FAA FTSE.
"Researchers often move around—between universities, cities, and even countries—to discover new ideas, work with others, and grow their careers," Professor Simmons said.
"This program helps put South Australia on the map as a great place for top researchers to come.
"It will make our research centres stronger and more well-known. And it’s especially exciting for local STEMM students and professionals, who might soon get the chance to be part of world-leading science and technology research projects."
