The UNSW STEMM Champions Program equips the next generation of women, non-binary, and gender-diverse thought leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine by providing strategic career development training and mentorship to higher degree, early career academic and professional candidates.

"STEMM Champions has been a highlight of my career at UNSW thus far. Coming together with like-minded peers and creating a supportive community has been fabulous. The workshops, particularly social media and strengthening communication skills, have equipped me with a repertoire of tools I know I can use for the rest of my career. The outreach activities were so fulfilling and made me feel like I made a difference; the students definitely taught me a thing or too as well. I’m so glad the program was extended to include those of us from Medicine and Health!"  

- Kate Drury, STEMM Champion 2024

Program overview and key benefits

The STEMM Champions Program is offered by UNSW Science in collaboration with UNSW Engineering and UNSW Medicine & Health.

Program Offerings:

• Specialised 12-month career development
• Workshops 
• Career coaching 
• Impactful outreach 
• Networking opportunities

Core skills developed:

• Communication 
• Leadership 
• Presentations 
• Professional development 
• Entrepreneurship 
• Advocacy

STEMM Champion candidates are also required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of outreach activities within the twelve-month program.  

Who should apply?

Higher Degree Researcher (HDR) Cohort 

The HDR cohort is for women, non-binary, and gender-diverse students enrolled in a PhD or Masters by Research in UNSW Science, UNSW Engineering, or UNSW Medicine & Health (full-time or part-time equivalent). They have aspirations for personal and professional growth and will commit to the role of UNSW STEMM Champion.

Early Career (EC) Cohort (Academic or Professional)

The EC Cohort is for women, non-binary, and gender-diverse researchers who are 0–7 years post‑PhD or who hold an undergraduate degree and at least 5 years’ experience facilitating research in STEMM (excluding career interruptions). They must currently hold an academic or professional position (full-time or part-time equivalent) in UNSW Science, UNSW Engineering, or UNSW Medicine & Health. They have aspirations for personal and professional growth and will commit to the role of UNSW STEMM Champion.

We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ people.

Thinking about 2026?

Applications Open in December!

Applications Open: 8 December 2025

Applications Close: January 2026

Application Outcomes: Mid-February 2026

Program Commences: March 2026

Program timetable 

Please note that all program events are held in person at the UNSW Kensington campus.

"When I joined the STEMM Champions program, I expected to improve my communication and leadership skills, but the experience far exceeded my expectations. Through various workshops, I've learned how to engage diverse audiences and present my research more effectively. At SciFest during National Science Week, I, along with another STEMM Champion, had the opportunity to explain bioinformatics to inspire future scientists. Overall, the program has been a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow scientists, share experiences, and deepen my commitment to my scientific career."

- Gabriela Santos Rodriguez, STEMM Champion 2024