If you’re a bold, boundary-pushing researcher ready to make a mark on the world, the Forrest Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in Australia may be your perfect launchpad. Known for supporting outstanding early-career postdoctoral scholars, the Forrest Fellowship offers a prestigious and fully funded opportunity to work at one of Western Australia’s top universities—and applications for 2026 open on 15 May 2025.
Overview: Who Are the Forrest Fellows?
Forrest Fellows are visionary researchers who:
- Think unconventionally and take calculated intellectual risks.
- Thrive on interdisciplinary exploration and collaborative problem-solving.
- Are committed to creating research with real-world impact.
- Have studied and researched at multiple institutions, achieving global recognition.
This fellowship is tailored for exceptional postdocs who not only led their graduate cohorts but are now pushing the boundaries of their field—and beyond.
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.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 Forrest Postdoctoral Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be in the final year of their PhD or have completed it no earlier than 1 January 2023.
- Successfully complete all PhD requirements by 31 December 2025.
- Demonstrate a record of outstanding academic achievement and international research experience.
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.