The Forrest Research Foundation, established in 2014 through one of Australia’s largest philanthropic gifts by Andrew and Nicola Forrest via the Minderoo Foundation, is dedicated to advancing world-class research in Western Australia. The Foundation attracts exceptional scholars from across the globe, supporting them to conduct innovative research at one of Western Australia’s five universities: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, the University of Notre Dame (Fremantle), and the University of Western Australia. Its mission is to foster research and innovation capacity that has the potential to transform society. Beyond funding scholarships and fellowships, the Foundation actively works to bridge research outcomes with government, business, and the wider community, aiming to stimulate further investment and collaboration in Australia’s research ecosystem.

The Forrest Research Foundation offers prestigious postdoctoral fellowships to early-career researchers who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and innovative research contributions. These fellowships seek scholars who are not only intellectually outstanding but also adventurous, open-minded, and willing to embrace unconventional problem-solving approaches. Fellows are expected to extend their doctoral research by crossing disciplinary boundaries and collaborating widely. The fellowship supports recipients with a competitive salary, allowances for accommodation, research, travel, and relocation, providing them the freedom and resources to pursue groundbreaking research. Fellows also contribute to the Foundation’s broader mission by mentoring others, engaging in leadership roles, and promoting research communication that benefits society.