The John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) is now accepting applications for the 2026 intake, offering a fully funded opportunity for scientists and economists from ACIAR partner countries to pursue postgraduate research degrees at top Australian universities. This program strengthens research capabilities and fosters international collaboration in agriculture, fisheries, and food security.
About the Fellowship
The John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) is the largest initiative under the ACIAR Capacity Development Program, supporting agricultural researchers through Masters by Research or PhD scholarships. Scholars receive full tuition and additional career development opportunities through the Australia Awards system.
JAF Fellowship Benefits
JAF scholars receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition fees at an Australian university.
- Return air travel (economy class, most direct route).
- Establishment allowance for accommodation, textbooks, and study materials.
- Fortnightly Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE).
- Introductory Academic Program (IAP) before starting formal studies.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the award holder.
- Pre-course English (PCE) training, if required.
- Supplementary academic support for research success.
- Fieldwork funding (economy airfare) for eligible research students.
- JAF Support Facility (JSF) – additional pastoral and networking support.
- Access to Australia Awards networking and alumni events.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria at the time of application:
- Citizenship of an ACIAR partner country (excluding India and Myanmar).
- Active involvement in an ACIAR-supported research project within the last 24 months.
- A relevant bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a field related to postgraduate research.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PET) or willingness to take the test.
- Employer endorsement confirming support for the study leave.
- Strong research proposal addressing gender equity, social inclusion, climate change, and national development priorities.
- Current employment on a permanent or long-term contract basis.
- Written approvals from the ACIAR Project Leaders, Primary Supervisor, and collaborating institutions.
How to Apply?
Applications for the 2026 intake open on 1 February 2025 and close on 30 April 2025.
- Register an account on OASIS (https://www.aciar.gov.au/scholarships/john-allwright-fellowship).
- Select the ACIAR John Allwright Fellowships award program.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents:
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- Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport with valid expiry date).
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Research proposal addressing climate change, gender equity, and social inclusion.
- Employer endorsement letter (template available).
- Project Leader referee reports (templates available).
- Primary Supervisor endorsement letter.
- Current CV and list of publications (if applicable).
- English language proficiency report (IELTS/TOEFL/PET or university confirmation letter).
Application Timeline
- Application period: 1 February 2025 – 30 April 2025.
- Results announcement: Expected in late 2025.
- Program start: Australian academic year 2026.