The Queensland Immunology Research Centre (QIRC) is offering enabling Early-Career Researcher (ECR) grants that align with its priorities of promoting multidisciplinary and collaborative immunology research within Queensland. The objectives of this scheme are to:

• Promote collaborative research programs driven through The University of Queensland and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, but may in addition include other partners.
• Support preparation of applications for external research funds.

Funding Available 

QIRC will award up to five grants for 2027 with a maximum value of $30,000 each. These grants are available to Early-Career Researchers (<10 years since PhD award, allowing for career interruptions).

Eligibility

Successful applications must:

• Have one lead investigator from UQ and one lead investigator from QIMR Berghofer. Additional co-investigators can be based at UQ, QIMR Berghofer, or other QLD institutions. 
  • Lead investigators must have a PhD or equivalent level qualification.
  • Both lead investigators must be ECRs (<10 years since PhD award, allowing for career interruptions). Additional co-investigators do not need to be ECRs.
  • At least one lead investigator must be affiliated with a QIRC member lab. 
  • Lead investigators can only be listed as a lead investigator on one application in the 2027 QIRC Seed Grant scheme.
• Be conducting research in Immunology.

More information in the Grant Guidelines (download below).

How to Apply

Applicants should use the supplied application form (download below). Once completed, this form should then be submitted via email as a PDF attachment to qirc@uq.edu.au.

Applications close Monday, 9 November 2027.

Applications closed for the 2026 round. 

Submit your email here to be notified of future QIRC updates and opportunities.

The Queensland Immunology Research Centre (QIRC) is committed to supporting the next generation of world‑class immunologists. The QIRC PhD Scholarship Top‑Up Program provides additional financial support to high‑achieving PhD candidates undertaking immunology‑focused research co‑supervised across UQ and QIMR Berghofer. This funding enables candidates to enhance their research training, collaboration opportunities and professional development.

What's on offer 

Up to four top‑up scholarships are available in this round, valued at $8,000 each.

Eligibility

Scholarship top-ups are available to current full time or part time PhD students enrolled in a higher degree by research who are jointly co-supervised by personnel from both The University of Queensland and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute. This co-supervision model enables students to benefit from access to both organisations and supports the development of strong collaborative networks across them.

Eligibility

Email your application to qirc@uq.edu.au, including:

1. 1‑page cover letter addressing the assessment criteria (see full guidelines)
2. Completed application form
3. CV
4. Academic transcripts
5. 100‑word supervisor statement of support

Full application guidelines are available to download below. 

Applications close 5pm, Thursday 2 April 2026. Applicants will be notified by email by the end of April with the outcome of their submission.