AMF/AMRI Postgraduate Award

The AMF/AMRI Postgraduate Award offers postgraduate students up to $2,500 to support research carried out in collaboration with AMRI. Successful applicants will work with an AMRI staff member on a project connected to the Museum's collections and research programs and are encouraged to spend time at the Museum as part of their research.

Award amount

The maximum award is $2,500 to assist with travel, per diem, and research expenses. Please note the award amount does not cover administration overheads that may be applied by your institution, and no more than $1,500 per week can be claimed for per diem costs. The budget you submit will be assessed alongside the merit of your application, so ensure your costings are realistic and competitive.

The recommended duration of the award is six weeks for doctoral candidates and less for other degrees.

AMRI facilities

If you plan to use the Museum's DNA lab for molecular studies, please include this as a line item in your budget. For assistance with costings, contact Dr David Alquezar, Manager, Australian Centre for Wildlife Genomics (ACWG).

If you plan to work with the Collection Care and Conservation team or use CC&C facilities, please include this in your application. For further assistance, contact Heather Bleechmore, Manager, Collection Care and Conservation (CC&C).

Selection criteria

Applications are assessed on the following criteria:

• Significance of the scientific contribution to the field of interest
• Quality and clarity of the proposal
• Feasibility of the project in light of available resources
• Adequacy and reasonableness of the proposed budget
• Contribution of the intended outcomes to broader Australian society
• Strength of recommendation from supervisor/s
• Quality of the student's academic record

Please note, successful applicants are responsible for arranging their own travel and visas if required.

How to apply

To apply, please use the online form here: https://australianmuseum.jotform.com/260258445713054

Before submitting, please ensure you have:

• Read and understood the Terms and Conditions of the Award
• The following required documents prepared, including:
  • A curriculum vitae, including a summary statement of your academic record or transcript
  • A signed Statement of Support from a senior authority at your university or institution, confirming they will administer the award funds on your behalf
  • A signed Statement of Support from an AMRI staff member who will act as your host and collaborator during the award period.

Applications are now OPEN and should be submitted by 5pm Thursday 30 April 2026.

For any questions, contact the Australian Museum Research Institute at amri@australian.museum.