Sugar research awards now open

APPLICATIONS are now open for Sugar Research Australia’s Early-Career and Mid-Career Researcher Awards, which encourage innovative ideas and enhance the capability of the research sector that supports the Australian sugarcane industry.

Sugar Research Australia Research Funding Unit general manager Dr Michael O’Shea said the awards were an investment in professional development for people directly involved in the industry.

The awards are available for diverse activities, including for researchers who may require initial results or a proof of concept prior to developing a larger project, and who want to expand their skills and build collaborations in pursuit of an innovative initiative.

“SRA usually grants two ECR/MCR awards per year at a typical level of $10,000 to $15,000 per award,” Dr O’Shea said.

“They present a valuable professional development opportunity for researchers in the Australian sugarcane industry, to assist them to develop innovative and transformative projects that benefit cane growers and millers.

“SRA is committed to investing in research that can be adopted on farm or in the mill, and providing a tangible and positive outcome for sugarcane growers and millers.

“All applications will be assessed in that context of their benefit to the industry.”

Applications for the awards close on August 31.

QUT Researcher Dr Jan Zhanying Zhang used his award to investigate the use of biocontrol agents and biofertilisers for cane to enhance growth.

“I encourage early- and mid-career research scientists in the Australian sugarcane industry to apply for this professional development opportunity,” Dr Zhanying Zhang said.

Visit www.sugarresearch.com.au for more information.