Indigenous Knowledge Fellowship Grants

The Indigenous Knowledge Institute aims to advance research and engagement in Indigenous knowledge systems. Established in 2020, the Institute is one of five Melbourne Interdisciplinary Research Institutes that aim to promote research linkages and collaboration across the University and articulate research to external audiences. The Institute is a global hub for Indigenous wisdom and thought leadership in Indigenous knowledge research with diverse partners across Australia and the world.

About this scheme

This position presents a unique opportunity for a senior Indigenous Knowledge Holder, Traditional Owner and/or Ceremonial Leader to work as a Professor of the Indigenous Knowledge Institute at the University of Melbourne. As an Indigenous Knowledge Fellow, you will be supported to undertake a focused two-year program of research to realise your vision for advancing Indigenous Knowledge scholarship and exchanges.

Responsibilities include:

• Communicating and presenting on your research at internal and public events, meetings, and gatherings.
• Publishing and disseminating your research findings as ‘traditional’ (written and refereed) and/or ‘non-traditional’ (creative and public audience) academic outputs.
• Supporting the development of effective research collaborations in Indigenous Knowledge across the University.
• Contributing to developing a pipeline of research projects and partnerships focused on Indigenous Knowledge.

This position is located within the Indigenous Knowledge Institute at the University and reports to its Inaugural Director. The Institute aims to work in partnership with Indigenous communities and invests in research initiatives guided by four priority areas:

• Country — Indigenous knowledge of sustaining environments and ecologies
• Law — Indigenous knowledge in maintaining law, governance, and social cohesion
• Culture — Indigenous knowledge as applied through culture and creative expressions
• Futures — translating Indigenous knowledge for new applications

Each Indigenous Knowledge Fellowship awarded attracts a Research Project Grant of $20,000 per annum over two years. Successful applicants will be invited by the Institute to outline their anticipated project budget for approval.

All research funded by the Institute is guided by the University's Charter for Research with Indigenous Knowledge Holders.

You can find further information about this scheme by downloading the Position Description and FAQ below. The position can also be found on the University's Careers page.

Download the Position Description Download the Fellowship FAQ