International Education Innovation Fund

This project is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education through the International Education Innovation Fund (IEIF).

This program aims to support the careers of Early Career Researchers (ECRs). ECRs are researchers who have completed their postdoctoral studies within eight years of applying to participate. This program will deliver ECR placements for ASEAN member states in Australian research institutions in shared priority areas.

One of ASEAN’s key goals is to support economic and technical cooperation to address the many challenges and opportunities that face the region. Enhanced research and education cooperation among ASEAN countries fosters innovative growth as students, researchers and education providers build scientific, technological, and linguistic communities.

Focus Areas

• Agriculture and Food
• Resources and Energy
• Infrastructure
• The Green Economy
• Another priority area that will bolster Australia’s competitiveness and drive commercialisation outcomes

Funding Information

• Up to AU$20,000 per internship (up to 3-month duration).
• All internship recipients will receive any benefits in Australian Dollars:
  • Establishment allowance: $3,500 (paid once to cover for travel and visa costs)
  • Monthly stipend: $4,000 (paid up to the maximum program duration on a pro-rata basis)
  • Monthly family allowance: $1,500 (paid up to the maximum program duration on a pro-rata basis) if applicable
• Host organisations are eligible for a $1,000 subsidy per intern to cover potential research consumables.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be a citizen and/or permanent resident of an ASEAN member state
• Not be an Australian citizen and/or permanent resident
• Have completed a PhD degree or equivalent within the eight years prior to applying to participate in this initiative (i.e., PhD was conferred from March 2017 onwards)
• Be available to commence their proposed program in Australia after 2 June 2025 and complete the internship by 29 August 2025
• Provide a research proposal which falls under one of the eligible research focus areas
• Provide all relevant supporting documentation in English
• Obtain a placement offer from an approved host Australian research organisation
• Meet the eligibility requirements to apply for and hold the relevant visa issued by the Department of Home Affairs

Selection Criteria

• A record of high-level academic achievement and research experience in the applicant’s chosen field of study
• Well-defined research program and statement on how the research internship opportunity will benefit Australia and build the applicant’s potential to foster ongoing collaboration, cooperation and commercialisation opportunities between Australia and the home economy
• The extent of alignment between the applicant’s chosen field of study/research and priority sectors offering the greatest potential for shared commercial engagement opportunities for both Australia and the ASEAN region
• Statement on how the research internship opportunity would further the applicant’s academic and/or professional career

Application Requirements

• Completed 2025 Application form
• Completed 2025 Applicant Sponsor Nomination form
• Copy of citizenship or permanent residency
• PhD Testamur/Conferral Letter/Certificate of Completion – A certified copy of a PhD Testamur/Conferral Letter/Certificate of Completion
• Two Referee Reports
• Evidence of support and language suitability from the host
• Research CV and list of publications

For more information, visit RMIT University.