Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Advanced Defence Science and Technology (funded by the Australian Government’s Defence, Science and Technology Group)
Australia
Number of recipients
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
The Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Advanced Defence Science and Technology (funded by the Defence, Science and Technology Group - DSTG) enables outstanding U.S. researchers to undertake research in DSTG’s priority research areas. This award is open to academics at the level of full professor, providing awardees with the opportunity to contribute to the bilateral relationship between Australia and the United States.
The Fulbright Distinguished Chair can be based at any DSTG site within Australia. The Chair will work on a specific research project during their term (5-6 months) and will be expected to engage with DSTG personnel through occasional guest lectures and/or seminars. The awardee will also explore long-term collaborations and institutional linkages and applications should demonstrate plans for such activities. Applications must also meet the Fulbright objectives of fostering mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchange and supporting the Australia-U.S. binational relationship.
The Fulbright Distinguished Chair will be appointed to the Australian Defence Science and Technology Group (DST Group) and can be based at any DST site around Australia.
We encourage programs to start in January/February 2027 in line with the Australian academic year and to attend the Orientation Program and Gala Presentation Dinner in February.
While DSTG will consider any relevant research proposal, the following are key DSTG research areas:
- Hypersonics
- Directed Energy
- Trusted Autonomy
- Quantum Technology
- Information Warfare
- Long-Range Fires
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Defence, Science and Technology Group
To discuss potential projects and negotiate a Letter of Invitation please contact Dave Ellis, Assistant Director Science and Technology International Engagement, DSTG via dstg.international@defence.gov.au
Open to senior academics with 10+ years' academic experience in the proposed field. The sponsor is interested specifically in academic applicants at the level of associate or full professor by the grant start date with a distinguished career in the proposed field. Professional applicants should have at least 10 years' experience in their professional field and should highlight any major achievements in their applications.
Following the review process, short-listed applicants will be invited for a virtual interview with a Fulbright Interview Committee in Australia.
You may be asked to participate in an interview as part of the in-country selection process.
Fulbright U.S. Scholar Outreach and Recruitment
Institute of International Education (IIE), East Asia and the Pacific enquiries: eastasiapacific@iie.org
Fulbright Australia Team
Please contact the Fulbright scholarships team for any queries related to entitlements or application processes: fulbright@fulbright.org.au
Monthly stipend: for a maximum period of 6 months (minimum 5 months)
Accommodation Allowance: for a maximum period of 6 months (minimum 5 months)
International Travel allowance: round-trip, economy class airfare directly to and from the scholar's home city and the city of the host institution capped at AUD$4,000 (approximately USD$2,600)
The following tool can be used to compare cost of living between major cities: Cost of Living Comparison Tool | Compare International Cities
Australian Medicare: eligibility to apply for coverage (awardee only, not dependents)
Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE): a limited Health Benefits Plan designed by the U.S. Department of State and administered by Seven Corners, Inc. Please note this plan is NOT an insurance policy
Orientation and Gala: travel, accommodation, transport and meals at the Fulbright Orientation and Gala Presentation Dinner
Support and Guidance: from the Commission prior to and during program
Final grant amounts will be determined prior to the start of the academic year and are subject to the availability of funds. The United States Department of State and the Fulbright Commission in the host country reserve the right to alter, without notice, participating countries, number of awards and allowances.
Australia
Australia has a long and proud tradition of world-class research and development. Across all global ranking systems, criteria, and fields of study, Australia scores highly for its quality of education, student satisfaction and global reputation. In addition to working with some of the world's best and leading institutions, you'll have the opportunity to experience Australia's many natural wonders and picturesque landscapes.
Programs generally begin in Australia begin in late January/early February 2027 in line with the Australian academic year and Fulbright orientation activities.
Applicants may contact the Programs Team at the Fulbright Commission in Australia via email with any questions.
Visit our Scholar Directory to view and search all Fulbright alumni. You can also learn more about Fulbright Alumni Ambassadors.