Theo Murphy Initiative (Australia) - Participation support
Forecasted
Theo Murphy Initiative (Australia) - Participation support helps early- and mid-career STEM researchers cover event and professional development costs to overcome practical barriers to participation.
Funder: Australian Academy of Science
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per grant, subject to expense caps
Summary: Supports Australian early- and mid-career STEM researchers facing practical barriers to attending scientific events and professional development activities.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate a participation barrier; eligible applications enter a random draw if demand exceeds available funding.
Description
The Australian Academy of Science administers Participation Support Grants through the Theo Murphy Initiative (Australia), supported by the Royal Society. The grants help early- and mid-career researchers across science, technology, engineering and mathematics attend conferences, symposia, workshops, training and other professional development activities relevant to their fields.
The program addresses additional costs associated with caring responsibilities, accessibility requirements, mobility support and other practical barriers. It supports participation that would otherwise be difficult or impossible, rather than research or project delivery. Funding can cover approved participation fees, travel, accommodation, childcare and accessibility assistance, including an accompanying carer where needed. This is an equitable-access grant stream, not merit-based funding.
