2026 AAUN Research Grant Opportunity for African and
Australian Universities
The African-Australian Universities Network (AAUN) has
officially announced the 2026 Partnership & Research Development Fund
(PRDF), offering funding opportunities for innovative research
collaborations between African and Australian universities. This prestigious
grant program provides catalytic seed funding of up to AUD 10,000 per
project to support groundbreaking research, strengthen international
partnerships, and develop sustainable solutions to global challenges.
What is the AAUN PRDF?
The AAUN Partnership & Research Development Fund
(PRDF) is designed to foster institutional partnerships and collaborative
research initiatives among AAUN member universities. The fund supports projects
that demonstrate excellence, innovation, impact, and the potential to secure
additional external funding. Since its launch, more than 75 research
projects have been successfully funded and implemented across Africa and
Australia.
Funding Available
- Maximum
grant: AUD 10,000 per project
- Duration:
One year
- Total
projects expected in 2026: Up to 8
- 4
projects led by African member universities
- 4
projects led by Australian member universities
Priority Research Themes for 2026
Researchers from both natural and social sciences are
encouraged to apply in the following areas:
1. Environment, Climate, and Energy Transition
Research focused on climate change adaptation, renewable
energy, environmental sustainability, and green innovation.
2. Equality, Security, and Social Cohesion
Projects addressing social inclusion, peacebuilding,
governance, human rights, and community resilience.
3. Public Health and Human Wellbeing
Innovative studies promoting healthcare improvement, disease
prevention, mental health, and community wellbeing.
4. Sustainable Food and Water Systems
Research supporting food security, agricultural innovation,
water management, and sustainable resource utilization.
5. Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Revolution
Projects exploring AI technologies, digital transformation,
data science, and emerging technological solutions.
Eligibility
The funding is open to collaborative teams from AAUN member
institutions in Africa and Australia. Applicants should demonstrate strong
partnerships, clear research objectives, measurable outcomes, and long-term
sustainability plans.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 30 June 2026 (23:59 local time of the
project lead institution)
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed and ranked by an international
selection committee composed of experts from Africa and Australia.
Successful applicants will be notified in August 2026,
with awards officially presented during the AAUN Forum in Perth, Australia,
on 1–2 September 2026.
Why Apply?
- Access
international research funding.
- Build
strong African-Australian research partnerships.
- Develop
innovative solutions to global challenges.
- Increase
institutional research capacity.
- Position
projects for future large-scale funding opportunities.
Contact Information
African Applications
Contact: Dr Sussy Munialo
Email: africa-secretariat@aaun.network
Australian Applications
Contact: Ms Ruvi Goredema
Email: aus-secretariat@aaun.network
The 2026 AAUN Partnership & Research Development Fund
(PRDF) is an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking international
collaboration, research funding, and global impact. Eligible institutions are
encouraged to prepare strong proposals and submit applications before the
deadline.
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