EQUS–FLEET Idea Factory 2021

The Idea Factory is an annual event run by EQUS and the ARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies (FLEET).  It is designed to provide training and networking opportunities to early-career researchers.  The 2021 workshop will concentrate on developing the knowledge and skills required to pitch your research and get funded.

When: 10–12 November 2021

Where: The Idea Factory will be run in a hybrid format.  Core content and engagement activities will be delivered online; physical gatherings may be organised at core nodes, depending on COVID-19 restrictions and attendees’ interest.  Core nodes are still to be determined, but it is likely there will be gatherings in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, and potentially Canberra and Perth.

Who: The Idea Factory is suitable for all EQUS & FLEET PhD Students (2nd year +) and Postdoctoral Research Fellows.

What: Attendees will hear from experts about how to write a research proposal.  Topics will include:

  • Scientific communication skills (Dr Merryn McKinnon, ANU Centre for Public Awareness of Science)
  • Grant-writing tips and tricks
  • Presentation skills

Throughout the event you will work in small teams to develop a collaborative research proposal.  On the final day, teams will submit their two-page proposal and give a short presentation about the submission.  A judging panel will provide feedback and award prizes.

By the conclusion of the event, participants should feel prepared to apply for a funding grant, whether that be a Centre of Excellence collaboration grant, or a university, government or industry grant.

In addition to providing you with training and development, the Idea Factory will provide you with an opportunity to:

  • Network with colleagues from other nodes and/or a cognate Centre
  • Receive mentoring on grant writing from a range of experts
  • Kick-start a proposal for an EQUS or FLEET collaboration grant

Places in this program are limited.  Attendees will be selected on the basis of the responses provided in their application, and to try and ensure an equitable spread of attendees from both Centres and multiple locations.  Please complete the application form by 24 September 2021 to register your interest.  For enquiries, please contact engage@equs.org.

Download the program

Major funding support

Australian Research Council

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present.