FEIT Indigenous Research Grant 2022

Purpose

The Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT) Indigenous Research Grant aims to:

  • create benefit for Indigenous communities.
  • build research capability in the field of Indigenous knowledge as it relates to engineering and information technology.
  • strengthen research partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Funding

Up to three FEIT Indigenous Research Grants of $20,000 are available in 2022. All funds will be allocated to the lead investigator on commencement of the project.

Eligibility

To be eligible, projects must:

  • be led by a FEIT academic working at any staffing level, at least 0.2 FTE and with an employment contract of at least 12 months.
  • have the support of an Indigenous community. The project may contribute to an existing Indigenous community partnership or be a new partnership with an Indigenous community.
  • be completed within 12 months of the award.

Applicants are expected to review and comply with best practice guidelines on research and research partnerships with Indigenous Partner Investigators and Knowledge Holders (see Additional Resources below).

Application and Assessment

Applicants must complete the online application form here by 5pm (AEST), 22 August 2022.

Proposals will be assessed against the following selection criteria:

  • Benefit to the Indigenous community: To what extent does the project demonstrate benefit for the community, Indigenous Partner Investigators and Indigenous Knowledge Holders?
  • Partnership with the Indigenous community: To what extent does the project team have an existing partnership or demonstrate capacity to establish a new partnership with Indigenous community?
  • Research in Indigenous knowledges: How does the project advance research into Indigenous knowledges or applies Indigenous knowledges to an established field of engineering or information technology?
  • Feasibility of the project: To what extent are the project’s scope, methods, and budget feasible within the 12-month project period?
  • Impact of the project: What is its expected reach and impact of the project?

Submissions will be assessed by a review panel, consisting of:

  • Deputy Dean (Engagement), FEIT
  • Deputy Dean (Research), FEIT
  • A nominated representative from University of Melbourne’s Indigenous Knowledge Institute
  • Input from the relevant Indigenous partner representative

Key Dates

  • Applications open: 7 July 2022
  • Applications close: 5pm (AEST), 22 August 2022

Expected Output and Deliverables

  • A brief progress report is expected within 6 months of award.
  • At completion (within 12 months of award):
    • A presentation of outcomes
    • A full report, including details of any outcomes, publications, presentations, media coverage, and additional grants (planned or awarded) arising from the project.
    • Presentation (or communication plan) of outcomes and insights for the wider Indigenous partner community.

Additional Resources

The University of Melbourne has a strong foundation in education and research that elevates Indigenous knowledge systems. The Indigenous Knowledge Institute has resources and best practice guidelines on research and research partnerships with Indigenous Knowledge Holders.

Applicants are expected to review best practice guidelines such as:

Further information

Please direct your questions to engit-engagement@unimelb.edu.au