The John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) is a competitive, merit-based scholarship that provides an opportunity for scientists and economists from partner countries to pursue postgraduate research qualifications at Australian tertiary institutions. The fellowship supports Master by Research or PhD programmes and is specifically targeted at individuals who are currently or were recently involved in Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)–funded projects. The JAF aims to strengthen research capacity, leadership, and development impact by supporting high-quality research that responds directly to national and regional development priorities. Purpose and Value of the Fellowship The John Allwright Fellowship is designed to build a pipeline of skilled researchers who can contribute meaningfully to sustainable development outcomes in their home countries. In addition to academic training, JAF fellows receive pastoral care and professional development support, ensuring that participants acquire transferable skills that support career progression beyond the completion of their studies. The fellowship helps bridge the gap between advanced academic research and applied development practice, strengthening long-term collaboration between Australia and partner countries. What Is New in the JAF Programme The JAF programme has introduced dedicated placements for research addressing climate change, with a particular emphasis on: Climate change impacts Climate adaptation strategies Strengthening resilience to climate-related risks All applicants are strongly encouraged to integrate climate considerations into their proposed research, including how climate change may affect research outcomes, methodologies, and practical applications. Eligible Fields and Study Options The fellowship supports the following study pathways: Master by Research Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Master’s by coursework programmes are not eligible under the John Allwright Fellowship. Studies must be undertaken at an Australian tertiary institution, and applicants must demonstrate alignment between their proposed research and development priorities in their country of citizenship. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet all of the following key requirements: Must not be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or applying for permanent residency in Australia Must be a citizen of the country in which they are currently working Must be employed on a permanent or long-term contract Must be a scientist or economist actively involved in an ACIAR research project or small research activity within the last 24 months May be considered if involved in an ACIAR “advanced pipeline” project Must hold qualifications equivalent to at least an Australian Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline Must have undertaken an English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) within the last six months Must receive formal endorsement from: Current employer ACIAR project leaders (commissioned organisations and country collaborators) Primary academic supervisor Applicants’ research proposals must explicitly address: Climate change impacts, adaptation, or mitigation Gender equity and social inclusion Contribution to a national development priority Required Supporting Documentation Applicants must submit a complete set of documents through the Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System (OASIS). Failure to provide mandatory documentation may affect eligibility. Mandatory documents include: Proof of citizenship (e.g. birth certificate) Valid passport (minimum six months validity from application date) Certified copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts Official English language test results (if applicable) Research proposal Employer endorsement letter Australian Project Leader referee report Collaborating Country Project Leader referee report Primary supervisor endorsement letter Additional supporting documents may include: Current curriculum vitae (CV) Statement confirming English as the language of instruction List of publications (if applicable) Any other relevant documentation supporting the application Research Proposal Requirements All Master by Research and PhD applicants must submit a research proposal developed in consultation with their ACIAR project leader. The proposal must include clearly defined subheadings addressing: Proposed research title and objectives Relationship to previous research in the field Connection to the applicant’s current or recent ACIAR project Significance and application to national development priorities Research methodology, including: Consideration of climate change impacts Planned translation of research findings into action Relevance to climate adaptation or mitigation Integration of gender equity and social inclusion Fieldwork components, if applicable Application Process Applications open annually from February to April and must be submitted online via the OASIS portal. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook, which governs the JAF programme and outlines scholar responsibilities, conditions, and administrative requirements. The handbook may be updated periodically by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Enquiries and Further Information General enquiries: capacity.building@aciar.gov.au Country-specific enquiries: Contact the nearest ACIAR office Detailed programme information is available on the ACIAR John Allwright Fellowship webpage Conclusion The John Allwright Fellowship offers a prestigious pathway for early- and mid-career researchers to advance their academic qualifications while contributing to climate-resilient, inclusive, and development-focused research. By combining advanced research training with strong development alignment, the JAF plays a critical role in strengthening global research partnerships and long-term development outcomes. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.