Scholarships available for Northern Territory biosecurity researchers
February 19, 2026
To build the Northern Territory’s biosecurity capacity and capability, The Crawford Fund NT is offering scholarships to support researchers in the field of biosecurity to generate knowledge and learning through conference attendance and/or international travel.
“Developing the next generation of biosecurity specialists in the NT is a priority for the Crawford Fund NT and the NT Government given the unique position we are in on Australia’s northern coastline – a frontline entry-point for an increasing number of animal and plant pests and diseases,” said Em Prof Helen Garnett, Chair of the Crawford Fund’s NT Committee.
“These scholarships will continue to build biosecurity capacity and capability in the NT and help successful applicants in their studies and career pathways in biosecurity,” she said.
Last year these scholarships supported three Top End researchers, including Naghmeh Nejat, a plant pathologist and molecular biologist at the NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
“By attending the 2025 Australasian Plant Pathology Conference and associated field activities, I gained exposure to the vital role of biological collections in plant health research, diagnostics and surveillance,” said Naghmeh.
“The experience significantly advanced my professional development by providing access to innovative research, technical workshops, and direct engagement with scientists, policymakers, and biosecurity stakeholders,” she said.
Three scholarships are available, each up to the value of AUD $3300. The scholarships are open to Australian citizens or residents engaged in biosecurity research in a professional or academic capacity working in the Northern Territory.
These scholarships are generously supported by the Northern Territory Government.
Application process There is a very short online application form: Crawford Fund Biosecurity Scholarship Application Form 2026
To help you with this form, please note you will need to provide the following information:
- Details of your current role in biosecurity research
- The details of the conference or travel to be undertaken and the reasons for the travel
- The benefit to the applicant and their organisation to be gained from the travel or conference attendance, and the value that the scholarship will provide to your field or industry.
- A recent resume / curriculum vitae
- Contact details of two referees
- Supporting letters from your two referees
The closing date for applications is midnight Monday 30 March 2026.
Please note: travel or conference attendance must be undertaken before the end of August 2026.
Successful applicants will be required to provide a short report on their travel or conference attendance and a copy of any presentations provided. Successful applicants will also be invited to join a meeting of the NT Committee to provide feedback and a brief report on their experience.
If you have any questions or queries, please reach out to Tania Paul – [email protected]
