Awards for early career researchers

The Australian Academy of Science welcomes the proposal by the Australian Research Council to create new Discovery Awards for early career researchers.

Professor Bob Williamson, the Academy’s Secretary for Science Policy, said, "Australia has many excellent young scientists and doctors with first-rate ideas, and this initiative will let them run their own grants and learn how to build on their ideas. It is of great importance that we allow the next generation to learn how to manage scientific research when they are most likely to have new, innovative ideas and a high level of enthusiasm."

The academy has noted for several years that many of the best students are turning away from science because of the absence of good career prospects after a researcher obtains their doctorate degree.

"Australia needs more investment in sustainable career paths to attract and retain internationally competitive researchers, to build our economy, to help our medical and environmental research, and to ensure a competitive position on the world stage."

The academy noted that up to 15% of key Discovery Awards would go to researchers who will be under 35.

"Our best young scientists can now be confident of better career prospects in Australia. We will also be able to attract excellent new researchers from other countries," said Professor Williamson.

"The large number of new awards will also help to ensure that talented women remain on the career ladder, particularly as they will be structured to allow scientists to move their careers forward in a flexible way and move in and out of scientific posts."