In a significant advancement for gender equity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), five Indian women researchers have been awarded fellowships to collaborate with Australian experts on pressing issues such as climate-resilient crops, rabies control, and sustainable fuel cell technology.
These fellowships, part of the Australia India Women Researchers’ Exchange (AIWE) Program, were announced today during the Australia India Education and Skills Council meeting. The event was attended by Indian Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Australian Minister for Education, Jason Clare.
The AIWE Program, led by the Australia India Institute and funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, aims to enhance collaboration between Australia and India while promoting gender equity in STEM fields.
The selected fellows, all early-career researchers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India, will undertake a 6 to 8-week research exchange in Australia:
- Dr Blessy Babukutty from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, will work with Federation University to develop a novel membrane made from seaweed to improve the sustainability of fuel cell technology.
- Dr M. Dhanalakshmi from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University will collaborate with The University of Sydney, applying advanced mathematical modelling to enhance rabies control in India’s free-roaming dog populations.
- Dr Anshida Mayeen from Cochin University of Science and Technology will join forces with James Cook University to develop advanced dermal patches aimed at treating complex and chronic wounds.
- Dr Shreya Singh from Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur, will work with the University of Newcastle on bio-inspired seed coatings to boost crop resilience in drought conditions.
- Dr Sonia Singh from Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal, will partner with the University of New England to investigate the effects of elevated CO₂ on tomato plants, focusing on the relationship between leaf respiration and tomato yield.
Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute, emphasised the importance of investing in women researchers to foster innovation in STEM fields.
“By supporting women researchers through the AIWE Program, we are promoting gender equality and enriching the quality and diversity of STEM research,” she stated.
“We look forward to welcoming these talented women to Australia and witnessing the impactful research that will emerge from these fellowships.”
The AIWE Program offers ten fellowships for early-career postdoctoral researchers in STEM disciplines. Each fellowship will facilitate a 6 to 8-week research exchange between Australia and India, with completion expected by 31 May 2025.
Australian women researchers will also benefit from similar opportunities to engage with their Indian counterparts.
This initiative aligns with Australia’s Education Strategy for India, which prioritises research collaboration and strengthening bilateral education links.
During the 2023 Australia India Education and Skills Council meeting, both education ministers acknowledged the critical role that empowering women and girls plays in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Minister Pradhan’s visit to Australia, coinciding with the second AIESC meeting, which aims to bolster education and skills connections between the two nations. Discussions revolved around Australia’s research strengths and industry engagement models that support innovation and economic growth.
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