The Embassy of France in Australia, in collaboration with Monash University and the Australian-French Association for Research and Innovation (AFRAN Inc.), has announced a significant research funding initiative to encourage scientific collaboration on Antarctic and Southern Ocean studies.
Key Takeaways
- Up to AUD 30,000 (approx. €17,000) available for joint research projects
- Open to all scientific fields with a focus on Australian-French partnerships
- Special emphasis on early-career scientists and mutual organizational collaboration
- Application deadline set for September 26, 2025
Program Highlights
The Australian-French Antarctic Research Grant Program is geared towards supporting teams of researchers from both countries as they tackle scientific challenges related to Antarctica and its surrounding oceans. By stimulating researcher exchange and joint fieldwork, the program seeks to spark the development of new ideas and the strengthening of international networks.
The grant is intended for developmental or seed research projects, rather than large-scale studies. Funding provides flexibility for teams by covering costs associated with collaboration, such as short research visits and preliminary fieldwork, within a 24-month window.
Eligibility and Application Criteria
Eligible applicants include scientists and experts from public and private research bodies in Australia and France. To qualify, proposed projects must:
- Involve at least one participating organization from each country.
- Be led or co-led by early-career researchers, whose leadership is especially encouraged.
- Address scientific questions relevant to Antarctica or the Southern Ocean.
Projects are evaluated by a joint panel on several factors, including scientific merit, the novelty of their approach, and the likelihood of strengthening the Australia-France research alliance.
Application Process and Reporting Obligations
Submissions require a completed application form and concise CVs from each team member (highlighting major research publications). Applicants must ensure all documents are packaged according to strict naming and submission guidelines.
Successful applicants are required to report on their research activities and provide a financial account statement within two months of project completion. For any activity extending beyond one year, a progress report is to be submitted annually.
Broad Scientific Scope and Strategic Collaboration
Unlike many grant programs limited to certain disciplines, this initiative welcomes applications from all research fields—from environmental science and climate research to technology, policy studies, and beyond. The broad scope underscores a commitment to interdisciplinary solutions and the expansion of strategic scientific relationships between Australia and France.
With the deadline not until September 26, 2025, interested research teams have ample time to build alliances and design compelling collaborative projects that will further the understanding and preservation of Antarctica’s unique environment.
