The Australia India Women Researchers’ Exchange (AIWE) Program is set to open applications next week, marking a significant step in fostering collaboration between Australia and India while addressing gender equity in STEM research. This initiative, spearheaded by the Australia India Institute and backed by the Australian Government’s Department of Education, offers women researchers from both nations a platform to advance their work through short-term research exchanges.
Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute, highlighted the importance of supporting women in STEM, a field where they make up only 30 percent of researchers globally. She emphasised that the AIWE Program will create new opportunities for these talented researchers to engage in cross-border collaborations, driving innovation and promoting a more equitable research environment.
The program is structured to award ten fellowships to early-career postdoctoral researchers in STEM disciplines, with five fellowships designated for Indian researchers from universities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and five for Australian researchers from universities in regional centres. This focus on non-metropolitan areas is designed to extend research opportunities to regions that might otherwise be overlooked.
Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities and Chair of the AIWE Steering Committee, noted that this initiative is about more than just providing financial support. It is about empowering researchers to bring their unique perspectives to the global research community. By facilitating these exchanges, the program aims to enrich the diversity of thought and innovation in STEM fields.
Successful applicants will have the chance to collaborate on research projects with leading experts at their chosen host institutions, establishing networks that could lead to future joint research initiatives. The Australia India Institute’s Education Program continues to focus on enhancing bilateral research collaboration, building on the success of previous grants like the Australia India Research Students Fellowships and the Australia India ‘Unnati’ Research Collaboration Grants.
Applications for the AIWE program will be accepted through the Australian Researcher Cooperation Hub-India, a digital platform designed to encourage researcher engagement between Australia and India. Those interested in applying are encouraged to sign up for updates and further information through the ARCH-India mailing list.
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