Grants up to $1 million available through Global Science & Technology Diplomacy Fund

Applications are open for the first round of grants under the federal government’s $6 million Global Science & Technology Diplomacy Fund – Strategic Element, with a stated aim to “strengthen scientific collaboration with our nearest neighbours” in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Australian researchers and businesses can apply for grants valued between $100,000 to $1,000,000 for projects under the  round. 

Projects must cover one of five priority themes – advanced manufacturing, AI, quantum computing, hydrogen production and RNA vaccines – and must include at least one priority country. The list includes Brazil, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

According to a statement from industry minister Ed Husic, priority research areas were identified “through extensive stakeholder engagement”, align with the government’s strategies and priorities, and “will be reviewed annually.”

“Our researchers are globally respected, nowhere more than amongst our regional friends who recognise the critical importance of cutting-edge science and research within their own endeavours,” said Husic. 

The first grant round will be delivered by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), in collaboration with the Australian Academy of Science.

“The program will create links between Australia’s emerging and current STEM leaders and global partners, and give them access to international networks that can boost respective capabilities, economies, and build our international science and technology cooperation in a win, win, win,” said ATSE CEO Kylie Walker.

Applications opened on Wednesday and will close on May 31. More information is available at this link.

Picture: credit University of Adelaide