Applications now open for 2022 Research Futures Scholarship Program

Students will gain first-hand research experience and develop valuable industry connections whilst partaking in a research project selected from an exciting range of topics. Potential projects include the opportunity to investigate mental health disorders and service use among African immigrants; the benefits of green exercises on health and wellbeing; or the effects of nutrition on the immune function in adults with long-COVID; plus more.

The program is targeted at undergraduate students who are curious about where a career in research could take them. The summer session will run from 10 January to 18 February 2022 and is now open for applications. 

Maryann Ohl, 2021 Scholarship recipient, completed a project investigating the use of cannabis by patients with Parkinson’s Disease. She said the program provided an opportunity to step outside of her comfort zone.

“I have learnt a lot throughout this journey from the processes involved in implementing a survey design pilot study to just how interesting the recruitment process can be. I now know a lot more about what is involved in research and am learning more and more about data analysis as I go,” said Maryann, who is studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science at Southern Cross University.

“The thing I am probably most excited to have learnt on this journey though, is that research is something I definitely have a passion for and will continue to pursue throughout my career.”

Associate Professor Romy Lauche, Deputy Director of Research at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, said that this opportunity aims to support students in developing their research skills for future research postgraduate studies through the centre.

“The program provides a unique insight in to the world of research and gives students hands-on experience to see if pursuing further research is for them.

“This is an incredible opportunity for students to develop critical thinking skills, research presentation knowledge, field and/or laboratory skills, research skillset and methodology,” Professor Lauche said.

The National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine builds on its reputation for expanding knowledge and understanding of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine through rigorous and high-quality research.

For the 2022 program, the Centre will be partnering with other Faculties at the University to expand the scope of research projects.

“All research mentors have extensive experience in conducting and publishing research across a range of disciplines and are committed to supporting the next generation of researchers,” said Professor Lauche.

“By overseeing undergraduate students partake in a research project over the six-week period, our mentors will provide ongoing supervisory support.”

Update 10 November 2023:

2023 NCNM Research Future Students Scholarship Program

Please go here for the 2023 program details

2022 NCNM Research Futures Scholarship Program

The program supports students through a stipend allowance of $300 per week over the six-week duration of the project.

Applications are open to eligible Southern Cross University undergraduate students and close 31 October 2020.
[Please note: this document has been updated to 2023 list of projects]

To apply, view eligibility criteria, terms and conditions.
[Please note: this application form has been updated to provide the 2023 application form]
To Apply: download the 2023 application form here.

Media contact: Caitlin Zillman, NCNM Marketing and Communications Manager, +61 424 632 177 or caitlin.zillman@scu.edu.au