A collection of shapes in different shades of green, designed to evoke thoughts of the natural world

Awards, grants and support

We support researchers both in and outside of our Faculty with a range of generous prizes, awards and grants.

Lab photo

Global Collaboration Awards

Seeking an opportunity to build international research collaborations and strengthen your global network? The Global Collaboration Awards are open to Early Career Academics (Level A and B) who hold an Education and Research or Research Only position in the Faculty of Science. You can receive up to $20,000 to cover the costs of travel and accommodation and general project costs for your own independent research project.

Applicants must hold a PhD and must not have previously visited the host institute, published with or developed collaborative research projects with the named international collaborator.

Submissions for travel in 2025 are closed. Current University staff can download the 2025 Guidelines (login required). Applications for travel in 2026 are expected to open in September 2025.

David Syme Research Prize

The David Syme Research Prize was established following a donation from Mr David Syme in 1904 to the University of Melbourne. The annual prize rewards the best original research in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or Geology produced* in Australia during the two years preceding the closing date for applications. Preference will be given to original research of value to Australia's industrial and commercial interests (i.e. the impact of the research on the discipline and more broadly). The David Syme Research Prize was first awarded in 1906. The Prize is awarded by nomination only consists of a medal and a cash prize, the value of which will be confirmed each award year, usually about $10,000.

2024 recipient: Natasha Hurley-Walker

Associate Professor Natasha Hurley-Walker (pictured right) from Curtin University’s node at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, has been awarded the David Syme Research Prize in 2025 for her work titled Radio Astronomy. Read more.

Past recipients