Applications open for round two of the Asia-Pacific Academic Mentoring Program | deadline: 25 May

The International Science Council Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific (ISC RFP-AP), hosted by the Australian Academy of Science (AAS), is pleased to announce the launch of the second round of the Asia-Pacific Academic Mentoring Program, launching in September 2025. 

Following a successful pilot in 2024, the program continues to connect early-career researchers (ECRs) from across Asia and the Pacific with senior scientists and academic leaders based in Australia. The second round of the Program will expand to include ECRs not only from the Pacific but from Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines as well. Designed to support the next generation of scientific leaders in the region, the year-long program includes monthly one-on-one mentoring sessions, a launch event in Canberra, and participation in Science at the Shine Dome, Australia’s premier science event. 

The program is open to PhD students and researchers up to five years post-PhD (excluding career interruptions), working across all academic disciplines, from STEM and medicine to social sciences and the humanities. Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to academic leadership in their home region, as well as engagement in local or regional networks. 

We welcome applications from: 

• Pacific stream: Nationals of Pacific Island nations who reside in and are affiliated with institutions in the Pacific Islands. 

• Asia stream: Nationals of Vietnam, Thailand, or the Philippines who reside in and are affiliated with institutions in those countries. 

Successful mentees will receive AUD 2,615 in travel support to attend the program launch in Canberra, Australia. Mentors—experienced academics and STEM professionals based in Australia—will also receive support to attend Science at the Shine Dome. The mentoring role is voluntary and offers a unique opportunity to support emerging researchers and foster regional collaboration. 

Applications are now open for the 2025 round. Please create an account when applying.

The application period ends on Sunday 25 May at 7:00 UTC / 17:00 AEST. 

Photograph by Bradley Cummings