OHBM Australia's 2024 Early Career Researcher Award

Purpose

The Early Career Researcher Award is designed to support and recognize promising early-career researchers who have made noteworthy contributions to the field of human brain mapping. This award aims to advance the careers of emerging scientists by providing them with opportunities to further develop their research skills, gain recognition within the scientific community, and foster a collaborative research environment.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Applicants should be within three years of completing their doctoral degree (based on the date of the letter of conferral, not graduation) as of 30 Sep 2024.
2. Candidates must have demonstrated innovative and impactful research contributions in the field of human brain mapping, which can include experimental, theoretical, or methodological advancements.
3. The applicant must hold a position (at least 0.5 FTE) at a recognized university or research institution within Australia. Researchers who completed their PhD outside Australia but are currently based in Australia are also eligible.
4. Active membership in the Australian Chapter of the Organization of Human Brain Mapping is required. You can become a member for free by filling this form.

Emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

The Chapter is dedicated to promoting a diverse and inclusive research community. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including but not limited to women, individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+ researchers, and those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The selection process will prioritise fairness, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on their scientific merit, potential for future contributions, and alignment with DEI principles.

Consideration of Career Interruptions

We recognize that personal circumstances such as parental leave, major health issues, caregiving responsibilities, or other significant interruptions can impact a researcher’s career trajectory. Such factors will be taken into account when assessing an applicant’s achievements relative to their opportunity. Applicants are encouraged to provide a statement explaining any career disruptions, detailing their duration and impact on research productivity.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria:

• Research Excellence: Quality, innovation, and impact of the applicant’s research contributions to the field of human brain mapping.
• Emerging Independence and Leadership: Evidence of emerging independence, including national leadership roles, and participation in collaborative research efforts.
• Commitment to DEI: Demonstrated efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the research community or through their research practices.
• Research Environment and Potential for Future Impact: The applicant’s potential for future impact within the field and their current research environment’s support for further career development.

Award Benefits

• An invitation to present their research at the Australian Chapter’s annual meeting.
• Funding for travel expenses if required, and free registration to the conference.

Application Requirements

Applications should include the following components:

• A self-nomination letter of no more than 500 words outlining the candidate’s contributions and impact in the field.
• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) not exceeding two pages, highlighting academic qualifications, positions held, awards, and distinctions.
• A list of the top 3 publications, with a brief description of each including applicant’s contribution, and any recognition received (e.g., citations, editorial commentaries, etc.).
• A statement detailing any career disruptions (if applicable).

Submission Instructions

All application materials must be compiled into a single PDF and submitted via email to ohbm.aus@gmail.com with Early Career Researcher Award in subject line by the deadline of 30 September 2024.