Our grants

Arthritis Australia’s National Research Program is open to both national and international researchers. Several types of research grants are available.

Fellowships

Research fellowships are available for post-doctoral work or following recently completed rheumatology advanced training. Available for research programs both overseas and in Australia.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for young medical and science graduates to undertake thesis studies into arthritis and related disorders at recognised universities. These scholarships provide research training to doctorate or masters level and are designed to develop the intellectual and technical expertise required for a career involving laboratory and clinical investigation. Scholarships are intended, in general, to support basic and clinical research training within Australian research units and as a precursor to more advanced study in Australia and overseas. Scholarships are for one year and are renewable for three years, depending on progress and funding priorities.

Project Grants and Grants in Aid

Project Grants and Grants in Aid are typically for short-term projects with well-defined aims and budgets which can be achieved in a 12 month period. Grants in Aid (each grant valued up to maximum $25,000AUD) will be available only for new investigators (defined as within six years of receiving their PhD) or allied health researchers, excluding physiotherapists unless they meet the criteria of a ‘New investigator’. A small number of Project Grants (each grant valued up to maximum $75,000AUD) will be available for musculoskeletal research including grants focusing on rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Translational Research

In 2016 Arthritis Australia’s Research Strategy was reviewed and refined to fit in with the purpose of the organisation, to be the leader in funding and advocating world class research.

As part of the new research strategy, there is an increased emphasis on translational research and applicants have been asked to explain in detail how their project will produce a benefit to health consumers e.g. improve quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal disease or advance knowledge in clinical areas where there is therapeutic uncertainty.

The following outcomes should be noted:

• One project grant to be allocated specifically to a project with a translational emphasis
• The Research Grants Assessment Committee reserves the right not to award any grant if there is no application of sufficient merit that fulfils the relevant criteria.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed at various times, depending on the type of grant you have applied for. Refer to grant application deadlines. The Grants Assessment Committee will review applications and offer their recommendations to the Arthritis Australia Board. Grants will be awarded and applicants will be notified in writing of the success or otherwise of their application, within a month of the review. 

2022-2023 National Research Program Process and Review

We thank all the reviewers who generously donate their time and expertise in helping to ensure that we fund the best possible research projects, and that donors’ money is used in the most effective way. We greatly appreciate their invaluable contributions to the Arthritis Australia Research Program.