Applications have opened for the BCEC LSQ Bio-Innovation Bursary, an initiative by the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) and Life Sciences Queensland (LSQ), supporting Queensland’s next generation of life sciences researchers.
As part of BCEC’s 30th year legacy initiatives and LSQ’s 15th anniversary year, the bursary was developed through the BCEC Convention Advocates Partnership to support emerging biotechnology researchers working across areas including medical, agricultural and biofuels innovation, and strengthen connections between research and industry. As a leading host of international life sciences and biotechnology conferences, BCEC works closely with the sectors behind those events to showcase Queensland’s research and innovation capability. This bursary extends that role by supporting the next generation of researchers who will drive future innovation and contribute to the global conversations those conferences represent.
Value at up to $25,000, the bursary provides flexible funding to support activities that enhance industry collaboration and research impact, including collaborative projects, industry placements, commercialisation initiatives, specialised resourced and targeted engagement opportunities.
To be eligible, applicants must be early to mid-career researchers working in the life sciences sector in Queensland, typically between two and 12 years post-PhD, with a strong track record relative to opportunity and clear potential for industry translation.
LSQ Chair Professor Frank Gannon said the bursary presents a valuable opportunity for researchers at a critical stage of their careers.
“This bursary provides researchers with the flexibility to build on their work and extend its reach and relevance in ways that might not otherwise be possible. It is designed to build momentum at a pivotal point in a researcher’s career and support the continued growth of Queensland’s life sector.”
I would encourage eligible researchers to apply, particularly those ready to strengthen engagement with industry.”
Applicants will be assessed relative to opportunity, with evaluation focused on the impact of the proposed activity in strengthening industry engagement and accelerating research translation, along with the calibre and future potential of the applicant.
The bursary will be awarded through a competitive, independently reviewed process, with the recipient recognised alongside Gene Awards recipients at the LSQ Gene Awards event on Friday, 11 September.
Kym Guesdon, General Manager of the Legends Global managed BCEC, said the initiative reflects the Centre’s long-standing connection to the sectors behind the events it hosts.
“While convention centres are often defined by the events they host, this bursary demonstrates a broader role. Through our Convention Advocates Partnership, we’re embedded in the sectors behind those events and the people driving them.
Working alongside Life Sciences Queensland, it’s fitting that this initiative focuses on supporting emerging leaders at a time of accelerating innovation.
The Gene Awards are an important platform for recognising excellence in life sciences, making them a natural home for this work as we invest in future leaders and the continued strength of the sector.”
Applications are now open. Full details, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, are available via Life Sciences Queensland.
