APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 ARE NOW OPEN

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Women remain underrepresented in science careers and healthcare leadership despite their growing engagement in STEM secondary education. Now is the time to support them in their career journey towards leadership in the life sciences.

At Research Australia we are committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive health and medical research (HMR) workforce. For the Australian HMR sector to thrive, it needs a workforce that is diverse and equitable; that is truly reflective of Australian society. That is why we are working with our partner, AbbVie, to deliver the third instalment of the Future Health Leaders Program.

The Future Health Leaders Program is designed to inspire female high school students to enter a career in health and medical research, innovation and life sciences. The program will bring together twelve Year 11 science students from across Australia for an Immersion Session in Canberra, which will include:

        • Panel discussions and Q&As with inspiring female leaders in the health and medical research sector
        • A formal session at Australian Parliament House, where students will have the opportunity to connect with leading women in the Australian Government
        • A session at CSIRO, where participants will take part in hands-on activities and hear from CSIRO researchers about their exciting work in fields like health, biosecurity and much more

This year’s program will take place on 13 and 14 October 2026.

The program will also provide opportunities to engage beyond the day in Canberra with several virtual sessions, mentoring participants on topics relevant to their future studies. Participants will also be invited to join the Future Health Leaders Alumni Program, connecting and supporting participants throughout university and the early stages of their careers.

During the program, participants develop meaningful connections with each other and current female leaders in research, education, clinical roles, policy and industry. Here are some thoughts from our past participants on the program:

‘Travelling to Canberra for the program was an exciting opportunity that allowed me to engage deeply with the life sciences. Coming from a school where STEM subjects are largely male dominated, meeting other young women who were just as passionate about the sciences as I was wonderful. Learning about their interests and hearing from inspiring women in STEM provided valuable insight into the many pathways the life sciences have to offer’ – Leah, FHL 2025 Participant

‘I found the Female Future Health Leader Program to be incredibly insightful. It was a valuable experience learning lots from the amazing, inspiring speakers, as well as exploring the variety of programs in the different labs.’ – Meharpreet, FHL 2024 Participant

‘I would highly recommend the Future Health Leaders Program to any fellow student. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals as well as learn from experts and leaders in the health and medical sector.’ – Konstandina, 2024 FHL Participant

Applications close on 31 May 2026 at 11:59pm AEST.

To apply, fill out the online application form using the button at the top of this page.

If you have any questions, or would like to know more about the program, don’t hesitate to contact futurehealthleaders@researchaustralia.org