Australian Institute of Nuclear  Science and Engineering Residential Student Scholarship 2025/2026

The Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (AINSE) is a premier organization dedicated to advancing research and collaboration in nuclear science, engineering, and related fields. By fostering partnerships between universities and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), AINSE supports cutting-edge scientific research with the potential to address critical challenges in health, environment, and technology.

AINSE’s commitment to academic excellence and hands-on learning is evident through its various scholarship programs, providing both funding and access to world-class research facilities. The 2025 Residential Student Scholarship (RSS) exemplifies AINSE’s goal to cultivate the next generation of leaders in nuclear science by supporting Ph.D. students’ collaborative research efforts at ANSTO facilities.

Scholarship Description

• Partner Institution: Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (AINSE);
• Host Country: Australia;
• Study Level: PhD ;
• Scholarship Type: Partial Funding;
• Scholarship Worth: 5,000$ – 9,000$ ;
• Eligible Countries: International Students;
• Subjects Available: All subjects ;
• Application Deadline: Avril 15th, 2025.

The Residential Student Scholarship (RSS) is a prestigious funding opportunity offered by AINSE for 2025, specifically aimed at Ph.D. students enrolled in nuclear science and engineering disciplines. This scholarship provides comprehensive financial assistance and invaluable research opportunities for students conducting research at ANSTO facilities. Valued at AUD $9,000 per year, the RSS includes an additional travel and accommodation allowance of up to AUD $5,000 annually to support students who are required to stay at ANSTO facilities for an average of six months per year.

Designed to foster a collaborative research environment, the RSS connects scholars with ANSTO experts, state-of-the-art facilities, and specialized equipment. Through this partnership, students engage in high-level research projects, gaining access to resources that are often unavailable at their home institutions.

Scholarship Benefits

The RSS provides substantial financial and professional support to Ph.D. students, enhancing both their academic experience and research capabilities. This support allows students to dedicate themselves to their studies and research with fewer financial constraints and greater access to ANSTO’s renowned research facilities.

1. Annual Stipend:
   • Recipients of the RSS receive an annual stipend of AUD $9,000. This stipend helps cover essential living expenses, allowing students to focus more fully on their research and academic responsibilities.
2. Travel and Accommodation Allowance:
   • To support students who must reside at ANSTO facilities for extended periods, the RSS offers up to AUD $5,000 per year to cover travel and accommodation expenses. This additional funding enables students to maintain a balance between their home institution and ANSTO, ensuring they can immerse themselves in their research without financial hindrance.
3. Access to ANSTO Facilities and Expertise:
   • Scholarship recipients benefit from access to ANSTO’s state-of-the-art equipment, laboratories, and specialized instruments. With guidance from ANSTO experts, students can conduct their research using advanced tools and techniques, enhancing the quality and scope of their projects.
4. Professional Development and Networking:
   • The RSS fosters collaboration and mentorship, providing students with opportunities to connect with leading scientists in nuclear science and engineering. This exposure to experienced researchers and professional networks can open doors to future academic and career prospects.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Residential Student Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria relating to their academic status, research focus, and institutional affiliations. Below are the detailed eligibility requirements:

1. Ph.D. Enrollment at an AINSE Member University:
   • Applicants must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at a university that is an official AINSE Member. This membership ensures that the institution is partnered with AINSE and supports nuclear science and engineering research.
2. Receipt of an RTP Scholarship or Equivalent:
   • Candidates must be recipients of a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or a comparable form of funding. This requirement ensures that students have baseline support for their studies and can benefit from the supplementary funding provided by the RSS.
3. Research Focus and ANSTO Utilization:
   • A primary eligibility requirement is that the applicant’s research project must utilize ANSTO’s facilities and expertise. This condition ensures that students can take full advantage of ANSTO’s resources and that their research aligns with the organization’s focus areas.
   • Students are expected to conduct research at ANSTO for an average duration of six months per year, making this scholarship ideal for those whose research demands substantial on-site presence and collaboration with ANSTO scientists.

Application Process

The RSS application process is designed to identify highly motivated Ph.D. students who can benefit from the resources and support provided by AINSE and ANSTO. Below is a step-by-step guide to completing the application:

1. Contact the AINSE Member Representative:
   • Before beginning the application process, interested students should reach out to the AINSE Member Representative at their university. This representative can provide guidance on the application process, assist with eligibility verification, and offer advice on securing the necessary endorsements.
2. Identify and Connect with an ANSTO Co-Supervisor:
   • One of the essential steps in the application process is to identify a suitable ANSTO co-supervisor who aligns with the student’s research area. The co-supervisor’s role is to provide mentorship, facilitate access to relevant ANSTO facilities, and guide the student’s research activities. Connecting with an ANSTO co-supervisor early in the process is crucial to ensuring a smooth application experience.
3. Prepare Application Materials:
   • Students must complete the application form available through AINSE’s online portal. Required materials may include academic transcripts, proof of RTP scholarship or equivalent, a detailed research proposal outlining the project’s objectives and relevance, and any letters of recommendation that can support the student’s qualifications and research ambitions.
4. Evaluation and Selection:
   • The AINSE Scholarship Selection Committee, in collaboration with ANSTO, will review applications based on eligibility, research alignment, academic merit, and the potential impact of the proposed research. Successful applicants will be notified via email and will receive guidance on the next steps for activating their scholarship.
5. Next Steps for Successful Applicants:
   • Upon acceptance, scholarship recipients will receive a comprehensive orientation, including an introduction to ANSTO facilities, expectations for research conduct, and details regarding travel and accommodation allowances. This orientation ensures that students are well-prepared for their residency at ANSTO.

Official website :

For more information, please visit the university’s official website : https://www.ainse.edu.au/residential/