A central focus of The Ian Potter Foundation’s Science program area is support for exceptional scientists with the aim of making a long-term contribution to thinking and knowledge in Australia. Our grants strategically fund opportunities for promising early-career researchers. Over the years, the foundation has had the opportunity to support hundreds of scientists with the intention that this will make a long-term contribution to Australia’s intellectual capital and provide an incentive for early career researchers to remain in Australia.
The Foundation grant-making in this area is directed to support for innovative scientific research driven by leading institutions and to initiatives that increase our understanding and knowledge of Australia’s biodiversity and its ecological sustainability. Investment in fellowship positions has been a notable element of our Science funding, with ongoing early-career fellowship programs at Museum Victoria and Lizard Island Research Station.
In 2007, we committed a Science challenge grant to support the establishment of the Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS) which would bring together several major institutes at one location at Chowder Bay on Sydney Harbour. Twelve months later the NSW State Government met the challenge with a further $600,000, which was followed by a major investment of $19 million by the Federal Government. SIMS has already established itself as a world class marine research facility, supporting the research of leading marine scientists and offering post-doctoral education opportunities.
The Foundation’s Science program area is a strong illustration of our commitment to excellence and innovation and to supporting Australia’s leading research organisations.
Details of our Science grants can be found in our Grants Database. Potential applicants should refer to the Funding Objectives in the Apply for a Grant section for more information about current funding priorities.