Green Fellowships Program

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Capturing platypus for release at the Royal National Park Park, Sydney NSW

The Green Fellowships Program is a prestigious initiative that welcomes outstanding international academics whose research aligns with UNSW’s strengths and strategic priorities.
Explore our research strengths
UNSW is ranked 20th globally in the 2026 QS World University Rankings, a testament to our excellence in research, teaching, and societal impact.

This highly selective program offers a unique opportunity for mid-career to senior researchers to join a world-class research environment, contribute to global impact, and build lasting academic partnerships.

Named in honour of UNSW Scientia Professor Martin Green — the inventor of PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) solar cell technology, which powers over 90% of solar panels worldwide — the program reflects UNSW’s commitment to improving people’s lives worldwide through the delivery of UNSW Strategy: Progress for All.

Eligibility & application

Scientia Professor Michelle Simmons with her Silicon Quantum Computing team.
As a Green Fellow, you will receive support to advance your research, collaborate with leading academics, and engage deeply with UNSW’s vibrant research ecosystem located in Sydney and Canberra.

This is a highly selective opportunity with only a limited number of places available for distinguished academics with global experience. The program is open to mid-career to senior researchers who are currently employed, or have significant experience, at an internationally recognised research institution overseas, and whose research aligns with UNSW’s Impact Focus Areas.

  • Accelerate the transition to a sustainable society and planet.
  • Advance economic and social prosperity.
  • Enable healthy lifespans.
  • Strengthen societal resilience, security and cohesion.
View our FAQs
    • Minimum requirements: 
      • Hold of PhD with at least 8 years post-PhD experience. 
      • Applicants should be currently employed or have extensive experience in an internationally recognised research institution at academic standing equivalent to Levels C, D, or E (Senior Research Fellow, Associate Professor, and Professor).
    • Demonstrated excellence in research with a strong focus on research quality and strategic impact – both individually and within the relevant discipline area at UNSW. 
    • Research alignment with UNSW’s Strategy and Impact Focus Areas.
    • Existing collaborations with UNSW colleagues or with the Australian network will be looked upon favourably.

    *PhD students and early career researchers are not eligible for the Green Fellowships Program.

    For any questions related to the program, please contact greenfellowships@unsw.edu.au
    1. Complete online Application Form
    2. Upload resume/CV
    3. Submit other supporting documents

    All application materials must be submitted in English.
    1. Application: Submit online application by 11:30pm AEST, Thursday 5 February 2026
    2. Review process: Longlisted candidates are notified and assessed by faculties (February/March 2026)
    3. Selection process: The Green Fellowships Selection Committee assesses shortlisted applications (May 2026)

    For any questions related to the program, please contact greenfellowships@unsw.edu.au.

Fellowship benefits

  • Competitive salary package for a minimum of 12 months, up to 2 years (full-time equivalent at Australian academic levels C, D, or E), with possibility of conversion to a continuing role after 12 months.
  • Research support package.
  • Comprehensive relocation package, including visa costs, to assist with the transition to Australia, in accordance with UNSW’s relocation framework.
  • Fellows will be hosted by a School or research centre and integrated into a dynamic community of leading researchers, including Scientia Fellows and Professors.

Round Two will be open from 19 January 2026 until 5 February 2026.

For any questions related to the program, please contact greenfellowships@unsw.edu.au

Life in Australia

UNSW comprises a network of campuses across Sydney, regional New South Wales (NSW), and Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) - each serving as a hub for world-class research, innovation, and academic excellence.

  • Australia is known for its diversity, with people from over 200 countries calling it home. At UNSW, our community reflects this richness, welcoming staff and students from more than 120 nationalities. Here, you’ll collaborate with leading researchers, access world-class facilities, and be part of a culture that values innovative ideas, diverse perspectives, and meaningful connections.

  • The Australian lifestyle blends a strong connection to the outdoors with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. From beach walks to bush hikes, weekend markets to world-class coffee, life here is about balance. At UNSW, we support your wellbeing with inclusive policies, flexible work options, and a campus culture that embraces community, inclusion, and sustainability.

  • Sydney is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities because it offers an exceptional quality of life defined by its temperate climate, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant urban culture. From iconic coastal walks and world-renowned beaches to a thriving arts, entertainment, and culinary scene, Sydney delivers a rich and varied lifestyle where you can seamlessly blend professional opportunity with personal fulfilment.

  • Australia’s capital is a hidden gem. Nestled between the snowy mountains and the coast, this unique bush-city is defined by its deep connection to nature, strong commitment to sustainability & innovation, and a vibrant intellectual energy. Canberra offers a calm yet connected lifestyle, ideal for those who value space to think, create, and contribute to the global community.

Sydney's iconic Eastern Beaches, located 10-minutes away from UNSW Main Campus.

FAQs

  • Yes. Green Fellows are expected to relocate to Australia and will be based at UNSW’s Sydney or Canberra campuses.

  • Yes, successful candidates along with any eligible accompanying dependents who do not currently hold a valid visa or work rights in Australia, will be supported in obtaining an appropriate visa prior to arrival. 

    UNSW’s Global Mobility Team in partnership with UNSW’s appointed immigration lawyers will guide candidates through the visa application process to secure a suitable visa for Australia. 

    All associated visa costs will be covered by the University, subject to the applicant meeting the necessary eligibility requirements.

    Visa processing times typically range from 4 to 6 months from the date of lodgement, but may vary — please refer to the Australian Government website for the most up-to-date information. 

  • The fellowship includes a comprehensive relocation package to assist with the transition to Australia, in accordance with UNSW’s relocation framework. 

    This may include, but is not limited to, immigration support and a relocation allowance to assist in covering expenses such as flights, temporary accommodation, shipping of personal belongings and other related expenses.  

    Specific relocation arrangements will be discussed with successful candidates.  

  • Relocation and immigration support may be extended to eligible family members, such as your spouse and children. This includes unrestricted work rights for your spouse for the duration of the visa.

    The relocation package may also cover key aspects of family relocation, including travel arrangements, temporary accommodation, and destination services such as assistance with home and school searches, depending on individual needs. 

    Specific relocation arrangements will be discussed directly with successful candidates.

  • No, healthcare is not included in the relocation package. In Australia, healthcare is considered a private benefit and must be arranged independently.

    If your visa application is successful, the Australian government requires you to maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay. This means you’ll need to purchase Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) from an approved Australian provider. 

  • Fellows receive a research support package, which may include funding for HDR supervision, access to UNSW facilities, and integration into UNSW’s research networks and strategic initiatives.

  • No, the Green Fellowships Program is not open to current or future PhD students. The initiative is designed to attract mid-career to senior-level research-active academics (Australian academic Levels C, D, and E) from outside Australia.

    UNSW offers a wide range of PhD programs across all faculties, with world-class supervision, research training, and opportunities to collaborate with industry and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. If you're considering further study opportunities, we encourage you to explore the PhD pathways available at UNSW. 

  • Yes, you can apply if you meet the eligibility criteria of the Green Fellowship Program.

  • The program is intended for mid-career researchers and above and is not suitable for early career applicants. Candidates should have a strong track record of independent research, leadership, and impact in their field. If you are unsure whether your career stage aligns with the program, we encourage you to review the eligibility criteria and consider whether your experience matches the expectations for Levels C, D, or E in the Australian academic system.

  • Appointments are made at Australian academic levels C, D, or E (Senior Research Fellow, Associate Professor, or Professor), depending on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

  • Prior collaboration with UNSW would support your application but is not a minimum requirement. Please outline any research collaborations or partnerships in your application.

  • Fellows will be hosted by a UNSW school or research centre, which may be located at either the Sydney or Canberra campus. Placement will be determined based on research alignment and collaboration opportunities.

  • Start dates may be negotiated based on visa processing timelines and individual circumstances. However, successful candidates are expected to commence within a reasonable timeframe after selection.

  • The fellowship is offered for a minimum of 12 months, up to 2 years (full-time equivalent). There is potential for conversion to a continuing academic role after 12 months, subject to performance and strategic alignment.

  • Your application will be reviewed by the relevant Faculty. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted in Q1 2026, with final decisions made by the Green Fellowships Selection Committee in Q2 2026.
Still have questions? Get in touch.

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